Washington, Feb 15: A US military transport aircraft, the C-17 Globemaster III, is scheduled to arrive at Amritsar International Airport on February 16, bringing approximately 119 Indian nationals back home.
This action follows the earlier deportation of 104 individuals, marking another step in the US government’s intensified efforts to address undocumented immigration.
Deportations are expected to occur bi-weekly until all undocumented immigrants are sent back to their countries of origin, as confirmed by official sources.
Reports indicate that the deportees include 67 individuals from Punjab, 33 from Haryana, eight from Gujarat, three from Uttar Pradesh, two each from Rajasthan and Maharashtra, alongside one each from Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh.
This removal is part of a sustained effort by US immigration authorities to target individuals who have entered the country unlawfully or overstayed their visas.
The timing of these deportations coincides with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the United States, where he conversed with President Donald Trump on critical bilateral matters, including immigration.
During a joint press conference, Modi reiterated India’s commitment to facilitate the return of verified Indian nationals and emphasized the importance of tackling human trafficking networks that prey on vulnerable migrants.
The treatment of deported Indians, who arrived restrained in handcuffs and shackles, has sparked significant controversy in India.
US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) defends this practice as a standard security measure during deportation flights aimed at deterring escape attempts or disturbances.
However, critics contend that such measures are excessive and inhumane, particularly for individuals who have only committed immigration-related offenses.
This issue has incited vigorous debates in the Indian Parliament, with opposition leaders calling for a formal investigation into the deportation procedures and the treatment of returnees.
In view of the escalating concerns, External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar has assured that India is in discussions with US officials to ensure that deportees are treated respectfully. He underscored the necessity of adhering to immigration laws while ensuring humane treatment.
The strict immigration policies of the Trump administration continue to impact thousands of Indian nationals, increasing pressure on the Indian government to manage reintegration efforts and address the broader issue of irregular migration.
In the US, ICE manages deportations in collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), while in India, returnees are processed by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the Bureau of Immigration, and local authorities.
With additional deportations anticipated in the upcoming months, immigration enforcement is a significant topic between India and the US as both countries navigate the intricacies of border management, human rights, and diplomatic collaboration.
These deportations highlight the overarching challenge of irregular migration from India to the US. Economic challenges, scarce employment opportunities, and the allure of better prospects abroad continue to prompt many Indians to attempt unauthorized entry into the US.
The Indian government now faces the challenge of reintegrating returnees, many of whom have spent extensive periods abroad and may find it difficult to reestablish their lives at home.
As the US intensifies its immigration policies, the Indian government feels increasing pressure to curb illegal migration via enhanced border management and diplomatic engagement.
Meanwhile, human rights organizations and advocacy groups persist in their calls for fair treatment of deportees, underscoring the need for a balance between border control and humane enforcement.
With further deportations on the horizon, immigration enforcement is poised to remain a vital concern in US-India relations, influencing policies surrounding border security, migrant rights, and diplomatic cooperation. (Agencies)
