Woman Held in Barnala Marriage Fraud
Police in Barnala, Punjab, have arrested a woman in connection with a Canada marriage fraud case involving a scam worth ₹41 lakh. The accused has been identified as Nirmal Kaur, mother of the prime suspect Kiran Kaur, who is currently living in Surrey, Canada.
According to officials, the case stems from a fraudulent arrangement where Kiran’s family allegedly lured her husband’s relatives into financing her education and settlement in Canada. In return, they promised she would later sponsor her husband’s permanent residency. However, after reaching Canada, Kiran allegedly abandoned her husband and began making further monetary demands.
Complaint of Fraud and Threats
The matter came to light when Sarabjit Singh, a resident of Ugoke village in Barnala, and his family filed a complaint with Sehna police. They alleged that Kiran’s family cheated them by taking ₹41 lakh for her education, visa, travel, and other expenses.
Kiran left for Canada in March 2023 on a student visa. About five months later, Sarabjit also joined her abroad. Initially, the couple lived together, but disputes soon began. According to police, Kiran separated from her husband and allegedly threatened to have him arrested if he did not provide more money.
Sarabjit’s family further claimed that part of the money was used to help Kiran’s brother migrate to Canada. Now, fearing deportation and legal action, Sarabjit is reportedly in hiding in Canada.
FIR Filed Against Family Members
An FIR was registered last month under Sections 420 (cheating), 120-B (criminal conspiracy), and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code. Five people have been named in the case: Kiran Kaur (wife), Nirmal Kaur (mother), Kulwant Ram (father), Kartaro Devi (grandmother), and Krishan Ram (uncle).
Station House Officer (SHO) Gurminder Singh of Sehna police station confirmed the arrest of Nirmal Kaur and said efforts are underway to apprehend the other accused, who remain at large. “Raids are being conducted to trace the fugitives. The investigation is ongoing,” he stated.
Growing Concerns Over Marriage-Linked Visa Fraud
Cases of marriage fraud linked to foreign visas have become a growing concern in Punjab, where families invest large sums of money in the hope of securing permanent residency for their children. Many victims later face financial ruin when promises are broken.
This case highlights the risks families face when entering into such arrangements without safeguards. Officials have urged families to verify claims before making financial commitments related to overseas education or immigration.
The Road Ahead
As the probe continues, police aim to track down the remaining suspects and recover the funds. For Sarabjit Singh’s family, the case is not just about money but also justice for the betrayal they allege.
The arrest of Nirmal Kaur marks a step forward, but the outcome depends on the cooperation between Indian and Canadian authorities. With the accused currently in different jurisdictions, the investigation may take time.