As youngsters, we are acquainted with the renowned tale of Dick Whittington, a destitute orphan who ventured to London in search of his fortune, believing the streets there were paved with gold, only to discover himself shivering and famished. He drifted into slumber at the entrance of an affluent individual who offered him a position in his culinary domain. Regrettably, life has not been as benevolent to the numerous undocumented migrants who find themselves repatriated to India.
One can envision the despair of these young individuals who liquidate all their family possessions to seize an opportunity to reach a foreign shore where they envision the streets to be paved with gold, transforming not only their own lives but also those who supported them back home. Thanks to President Trump’s stringent mass deportation policy, their narrative has taken centre stage. The initial group of deportees who arrived in Amritsar in restraints failed to stir up any commotion in Goa or among Goans.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
The second group includes two individuals from Goa and brought to light the hidden truth that many were aware of, but hesitant to address. The NRI Commissioner appropriately refrained from disclosing specifics regarding the local deportees. It is hoped that despite the lack of names or details, the NRI Commissioner will initiate an independent inquiry into these cases to uncover the perpetrators and their involvement. Given that human trafficking is at the core of these incidents, it warrants the utmost attention and the full extent of the government’s resources to eradicate this evil of human trafficking.
One young man, under the impression that any method was acceptable for traveling abroad, opted for the illicit path. This journey is rife with risks posed by abusive smugglers, as well as potential encounters with wild animals and starvation along the unauthorised route. The tragic incident of the family from Gujarat, who perished due to the cold near the Canadian border while attempting to cross into America, serves as a poignant reminder of the perils involved. A certain elected official even proposes that the double-engine government should leverage its influence with Trump to offer essential aid to the families of Goans illegally living overseas. However, such a proposition is unlikely to materialise within a system governed by regulations; while it might be tolerated in Goa, where transgressions are sometimes overlooked based on the offenders’ connections. It would have been more prudent if the official had advised against embarking on illegal migration, highlighting the futility of such endeavors that could result in a nightmarish existence rather than a utopian one. Alas, such a plea seems overly demanding in our society driven by political aspirations and vote bank calculations.
A woman vending the renowned Goan delicacy, cutlet pao, was overheard recounting the clandestine entry of her daughter into the United States. The local intermediary provided her with three sets of documents: one for each sector: Goa-Turkey-Mexico-US, each set to be disposed of upon arrival in the country. The plan entailed deliberate detention upon arrival, where the daughter, claiming proficiency solely in Konkani, a language unfamiliar to many, would seek asylum with minimal scrutiny. Following a period of confinement for processing, she was released until her case is scheduled for review, likely in 4 to 5 years. The entire scheme demanded a substantial sum exceeding 40 lakhs. Having spent over thirty days in detention, the daughter now awaits her impending hearing. The question lingers: will she patiently await the legal proceedings or opt to vanish into obscurity. She has not narrated any horror stories. It is exactly how a ponzi scheme works. Many will overhear her story, and some bakras/gullible will fall for the bait, she will get her commission for the introduction.
The alternative method involves disembarking or jumping ship in Miami/Florida, and living discreetly while undertaking jobs typically performed by undocumented workers, such as working at gas stations, Indian stores, or restaurants where wages are below the minimum standard. This approach is cost-effective, requiring individuals to secure employment on a US-based cruise line. Many young men from Goa are choosing this option, unable to return home due to their undocumented status. Moreover, under the Trump administration, stringent measures are in place as all law enforcement agencies are vigilant. Previously, only Immigration & Customs Enforcement Agents (ICE) were concerned with illegal immigrants. The administration has recently rescinded a law that previously restricted ICE agents from raiding church services where undocumented immigrants gather.
The Portuguese passport is an option available to all Goans and their families who were born before 1961. However, this path presents its own set of challenges, as many individuals discover that their personal information has been misappropriated and used by others, who may not necessarily be of Goan descent. An increasing number of Goans are now opting for a Portuguese passport in conjunction with an OCI, as this remains the most optimal and lawful avenue to pursue.
The underlying issue that necessitates investigation and resolution is WHY ARE GOANS EAGER TO DEPART GOA? Is it due to the dearth of employment opportunities, or the revelation of having to pay even when jobs are available as evidenced by the recent job scandal? Or is it the allure or sophistication of working overseas that entices individuals to resort to these drastic measures? Alternatively, could it be that the potential illegal immigrant hopefuls are unaware of the implications of their actions, thus resorting to paying exorbitant sums to reach the elusive El Dorado?
Until the authorities unveil the truth, the immediate and pivotal actions required are twofold. Primarily, it is essential to locate and apprehend the perpetrators of human trafficking, ensuring the complete eradication of their operations. Secondly, comprehensive awareness campaigns should be launched, potentially attaining virality on platforms like WhatsApp or Instagram. These campaigns should vividly portray the hardships endured in the quest for foreign lands, the perpetual dread of imminent danger, the susceptibility to exploitation, and the profound shame of returning in shackles, devoid of all dignity. The associated perils far surpass any conceivable advantages. If you must go, find a job abroad or get a Portugese passport.
(The author prefers to write rather than chat in a balcao)
