A US military aircraft carrying 116 illegal Indian immigrants landed in Amritsar late Saturday night, marking the second such deportation under the Donald Trump administration’s stringent immigration policies. The C-17 aircraft arrived at approximately 11:35 PM, about 90 minutes later than scheduled.
Upon arrival, the deportees underwent immigration, verification, and background checks before being allowed to return to their homes. According to a list obtained by India Today, over 60 of the deportees hail from Punjab, while more than 30 are from Haryana. The remaining individuals come from various states, including Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Goa, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu and Kashmir.
This latest flight follows a previous deportation on February 5, when a US plane brought back 104 illegal Indian immigrants, with a similar demographic distribution among the deportees. A third flight is anticipated to land in Amritsar on Sunday, February 16, carrying an additional 157 deportees, including 59 from Haryana, 52 from Punjab, and 31 from Gujarat.
The recent deportations came in the wake of the Indian government receiving notification from US authorities regarding another 487 illegal Indian migrants identified for deportation. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri addressed the media, stating that the US has issued removal orders for these individuals, and he hinted that the number of deportees could increase as more information becomes available.
Many of the deportees expressed their desire to migrate to the United States in search of better opportunities for their families. However, they were apprehended at the US border after attempting to enter the country through illegal routes, often referred to as “donkey routes.” These perilous pathways are commonly used by migrants and can cost them substantial amounts of money, often in the lakhs of rupees.
The treatment of the deportees has sparked outrage, particularly after a US military video surfaced showing some individuals in shackles. This footage has led to significant criticism from opposition parties in India, who have condemned the perceived mistreatment of the deportees.
The arrival of these deportation flights in Amritsar has ignited a political firestorm, with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann vocally criticizing the central government for designating Amritsar as the landing site for the deported individuals. Mann’s remarks reflect broader concerns about the handling of Indian nationals facing deportation and the implications for families left behind.
In response to the controversy, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has dismissed the opposition’s claims, arguing that the issue is being exaggerated for political gain. The party maintains that the deportation of illegal immigrants is a necessary step in addressing immigration challenges and ensuring the safety and security of both nations.
As the situation unfolds, the Indian government is expected to continue its dialogue with US authorities regarding the status of Indian nationals living illegally in the United States. The deportations highlight the ongoing complexities of immigration policy and the challenges faced by individuals seeking better lives abroad.
The recent events serve as a reminder of the risks associated with illegal immigration and the harsh realities faced by those who attempt to navigate these treacherous pathways. As more deportations are anticipated, the Indian government will likely face increasing pressure to address the root causes of migration and provide support for those affected by these policies.
