The Supreme Court on Monday denied anticipatory bail to Om Parkash, who is accused of aiding an illegal immigration network popularly known as the “dunki route.” A bench comprising Justices Ujjal Bhuyan and Manmohan underscored the seriousness of the offense, stating that such acts not only violate the law but also tarnish the global credibility of Indian passports and jeopardize the rights of legitimate Indian citizens.
The case stems from an FIR lodged by Haryana police following a complaint by a man named Raja. According to the complaint, an agent named Surinder promised to arrange Raja’s travel to the United States through legal means in exchange for ₹43 lakh. However, instead of a lawful process, Raja was routed through Dubai and smuggled via multiple countries, including a treacherous trek through the jungles of Panama, before being pushed across the US-Mexico border on February 1, 2025. Raja was arrested by US authorities, imprisoned, and deported back to India on February 16, 2025. Upon his return, the accused allegedly demanded an additional ₹22 lakh from Raja’s father, raising the total extorted amount to ₹65 lakh.
Earlier, the Punjab and Haryana High Court had refused to grant anticipatory bail to Parkash in April, citing the father's testimony that directly implicated him and pointing to Parkash’s past criminal record. The court also noted that the case was still in the early stages of investigation, necessitating further inquiry.
The case throws light on the dangerous and exploitative nature of the dunki route—a well-known illegal immigration corridor from South America to the United States involving perilous journeys across borders and harsh terrains. Amid a rise in deportations of Indian nationals from the US, scrutiny around such migration networks has increased, triggering political backlash within India. The Supreme Court’s ruling sends a strong message about the need for tough legal action against those who exploit vulnerable individuals for profit under the guise of overseas opportunities.