Take strict action against travel agents cheating people on pretext of sending them abroad: UP CM

Gorakhpur (UP), Dec 20 (PTI) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday directed police officials to take strict action against travel agents who cheat people on the pretext of sending them abroad, and ensure that victims recover their money, The chief minister asked the police to identify such fraudulent agents and initiate stringent action against them, according to an official statement.

Adityanath issued the directions while hearing public grievances during a 'Janata Darshan' programme held on Saturday morning at the Mahant Digvijaynath Smriti Bhavan auditorium of the Gorakhnath Temple complex.

Around 250 people were present for the programme.

A woman informed the chief minister that an agent promised to send a family member abroad but was later found to be cheating them. Taking cognisance of the complaint, Adityanath directed the police officials present to "take strict action against the agent and ensure that the victim's money was returned." He also cautioned the woman against falling into the trap of agents, saying, "People who attempt to go abroad through illegal means often end up in jail." Adityanath said there should be no delay or negligence in assisting victims. Any laxity in resolving public grievances would invite action against the concerned officials, he warned.

He asked administrative and police officers to ensure time-bound, impartial and quality disposal of complaints and to provide immediate relief to every victim. He also directed officials to take lawful and stringent steps in cases related to illegal land encroachment.

The statement said that several people also sought financial assistance for medical treatment during the 'Janata Darshan'. The chief minister directed officials to expedite the preparation of hospital cost estimates and submit them to the government, assuring adequate help from the Chief Minister's Discretionary Fund.

Adityanath also interacted with children who had come with their families, encouraged them to attend school and distributed chocolates to them, it added. PTI KIS SKY SKY