Why Punjab Is Becoming a Marriage Fraud Capital

Punjab has indeed seen a rise in cases of NRI marriage fraud, turning it into one of the hotspots for such fraudulent activities in India. Several factors contribute to this trend, and it has led to many hardships for affected families, particularly women who are left in vulnerable situations. And as much there has been a new trend regarding girls with adequate IELTS scores who are  getting married in Punjab to boys who sponsor the entire funds/expenditure of the girl to travel abroad in hope that the boy would also later move abroad but only to be left in quandary at a later stage.

Punjab has increasingly gained notoriety as one of the hotspots for NRI (Non-Resident Indian) marriage fraud, earning it an unwanted reputation as a "marriage fraud capital." This trend is particularly concerning, given the emotional, financial, and legal hardships that victims endure.

Why Punjab Is a Hub for NRI Marriage Fraud:

1. Large NRI Population: Punjab has a significant number of its residents settled abroad, especially in countries like Canada, the UK, the USA, and Australia. This creates more opportunities for fraudulent marriages with NRIs.
2. Cultural Aspirations: There is a strong desire among many Punjabi families to have connections or settle abroad, and marrying an NRI is often seen as a gateway to better opportunities. This desire sometimes leads families to overlook red flags during the marriage process.
3. Lack of Verification: Many families do not conduct thorough background checks on NRIs, leading to situations where they fall prey to fraudsters who either misrepresent their marital status, employment, or financial situation.
4. Dowry and Financial Exploitation: In many cases, the NRI spouse demands a substantial dowry or financial support. Once this is received, they abandon the marriage, leaving the bride and her family in distress.
5. Legal Complexities and Jurisdiction Issues: Since the NRIs live abroad, it becomes challenging to pursue legal action against them. The complexities of international laws and jurisdictional limitations make it easier for fraudulent NRIs to escape legal consequences.
6. Fake Promises of Visa Sponsorship: Many victims are promised a visa or citizenship, which often never materializes. Once they realize this, the NRI spouse may abandon them, either leaving them stranded abroad or stuck in India with false hopes.

Impact on Victims:

• Abandonment: Many women are abandoned soon after the marriage, sometimes even on their wedding night, with their NRI spouse leaving the country without notice.
• Emotional and Financial Distress: Victims often face severe financial losses, including dowry payments, wedding expenses, and legal fees. The emotional trauma and stigma associated with such incidents further worsen their situation.
• Loss of Legal Rights: Many women are left without legal documents like visas or permanent residency status when taken abroad, making them more vulnerable.

Preventive Measures for Families:

• Thorough Background Checks: It’s crucial to verify the NRI’s marital status, employment, and financial background before agreeing to the marriage.
• Insist on Marriage Registration: Always ensure the marriage is registered under the Special Marriage Act, making it legally binding and easier to pursue legal action if needed.
• Retain Copies of Documents: Keep copies of the NRI’s passport, visa, employment details, and other identification documents.

Landmark Judgements:-

Sarabjit Kaur Vs. Gopal Singh (P&H)

Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 Section 13B Grant of divorce - Alleged that husband had played fraud and got divorced papers signed to get visa for foreign country for himself as it was difficult of getting visa for whole family but later he married some other girl - Thus, this appeal - Held, a decree which is obtained by playing a fraud upon the court is liable to be set aside by the same court - Hence, appeal disposed of in limine giving liberty to appellant for filing applications for recalling of judgment.

Beant Singh Vs. Jaskaranjit Kaur (P&H)

Hindu Marriage Act, Section 5 - Indian Penal Code, Section 420 - Wife settled in Canada - Husband wanted to go Canada and paid Rs. 4 lakhs to uncle of wife and marriage was settled and performed - Husband was interviewed for grant of visa; however, he could not get through the interview and as such, was denied the visa for which wife could not blamed - Cannot be held that there was cheating fraud on part of wife or his uncle.

Conclusion

The rising number of NRI marriage fraud cases in Punjab is a pressing issue that requires urgent attention. Increased awareness, better legal protections, and a commitment from both families and the government to conduct thorough background checks can help curb this trend. While the situation is concerning, proactive measures can help protect potential victims and reduce the incidence of such fraudulent activities in the future.