Eight Goans Deported from USA Between 2024 and 2025, CM Reveals in Assembly
In a significant disclosure in the Goa legislative assembly, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant confirmed that a total of eight Goans, all male, were deported from the United States of America between the years 2024 and 2025. The information was provided through a written reply, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding the welfare of Goan expatriates abroad.
Lack of Data on Expired Passports and Detentions
Chief Minister Sawant further clarified that the Non-Resident Indian (NRI) commission currently does not possess specific data regarding two critical aspects:
- The exact number of Goans residing in the United States with expired passports.
- How many Goans are currently detained by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Center.
This lack of comprehensive data underscores the challenges faced by state authorities in monitoring and assisting its diaspora effectively, particularly in matters of immigration compliance and legal status abroad.
27 Cases Registered Against Illegal Recruitment Agents
In a related development, the state government has registered a total of 27 cases against illegal recruitment agents between 2021 and 2026. These cases were initiated based on complaints filed by families of affected individuals, with the majority of these cases being registered by the crime branch of the police.
The breakdown of cases registered over the years reveals a concerning upward trend:
- 2021: Only one case was filed.
- 2022 and 2023: Three cases each were registered in these years.
- 2024: The number doubled to six cases.
- 2025: A significant spike occurred with 12 cases registered, marking the highest number in the period.
- 2026 (January alone): Two cases have already been registered this year.
Nature of Cases and Current Status
The cases primarily involve agents who have allegedly cheated individuals under the pretext of providing lucrative job opportunities abroad. These fraudulent activities have exploited the aspirations of many seeking employment overseas, leading to financial losses and legal complications for the victims.
As of now, the majority of these 27 cases remain under active investigation and are pending trial. The ongoing legal processes highlight the state's efforts to crack down on such illicit practices and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The revelations by CM Pramod Sawant bring to light the dual challenges of deportation issues affecting Goans in the USA and the rampant fraud by illegal recruitment agents within the state. These matters call for enhanced coordination between state agencies and better data management to protect citizens both domestically and internationally.
