By Jasleen Kaur
Copyright ptcnews
PTC Web Desk: The United States has cancelled and denied visas for several Indian business executives and corporate leaders accused of being involved in trafficking fentanyl precursor chemicals. The US Embassy in New Delhi announced the move on Thursday but did not reveal the names of the individuals or companies affected.According to the embassy, the decision is part of Washington’s efforts to protect Americans from synthetic drugs. The action was taken under various provisions of the US Immigration and Nationality Act, making the targeted individuals and their close family members ineligible for travel to the US.Jorgan Andrews, chargé d’affaires at the US Embassy, said, “The embassy is committed to stopping illegal drug trafficking. Those engaged in the production and smuggling of drugs to the US, along with their families, will face serious consequences, including visa bans.”This is the second time in 2025 that the US has imposed visa restrictions on Indian nationals. Earlier in May, the State Department had restricted visas for owners and officials of Indian travel agencies accused of helping migrants enter the US illegally.The latest action follows charges filed in January by the US Department of Justice against two India-based firms—Raxuter Chemicals and Athos Chemicals—and Bhavesh Lathiya, a top executive of Raxuter Chemicals. They were accused of conspiring to supply fentanyl precursor chemicals to the US and Mexico. Lathiya was arrested in New York on January 4 and presented before a magistrate in the Eastern District of New York.Prosecutors alleged the companies used international mail services to ship chemicals while mislabelling packages, falsifying customs forms, and making false declarations to avoid detection.The US government described fentanyl and its precursors as a major threat and stressed that India’s cooperation is vital in tackling this cross-border issue.Officials said the Trump administration had prioritised strict action against drug trafficking, border security, and reforming practices in source countries that supply illicit drugs to the US.There has been no immediate response from Indian authorities on the latest development.
