In a significant development, the United States has deported 104 Indian nationals who were residing illegally in the country. These individuals, who had entered the U.S. unlawfully, were sent back to India on a U.S. military aircraft, which landed in Amritsar on Wednesday. The use of a military plane for deportation has raised concerns about the treatment of Indian deportees, prompting a response from India’s Ministry of External Affairs.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri addressed the issue in a press briefing, stating that this particular deportation was distinct from previous instances. He explained that the U.S. authorities had classified it as a “national security operation,” which is likely the reason for the use of a military aircraft. He also noted that such deportations have taken place over the years and are not an entirely new occurrence.
According to official statements, the U.S. government has informed India that 487 Indian nationals have received final deportation orders. The latest batch of 104 deportees is part of this ongoing process. U.S. Border Patrol Chief Michael W. Banks also commented on the deportation through a video post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). He stated that the successful return of these individuals marked the longest-ever deportation flight using military transport. Banks reiterated the U.S. government’s strict stance on immigration enforcement, emphasizing that “if you cross the border illegally, you will be removed.”
This move aligns with the immigration policies introduced by U.S. President Donald Trump, who has maintained a strong stance against illegal immigration since assuming office. Trump had pledged to take stringent action against unauthorized foreign nationals and ensure their deportation. The latest deportation comes at a crucial time, just ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to the U.S. on February 12-13. This will be Modi’s first meeting with Trump since he assumed the presidency last month.
Addressing the concerns surrounding the deportation, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar responded in the Rajya Sabha, stating that the return of illegal immigrants from the U.S. is not a new development. He pointed out that over the years, thousands of Indians have been deported due to unauthorized stay in the U.S., with figures ranging from 530 in 2012 to over 2,000 in 2019.
Jaishankar further emphasized that India is in talks with the U.S. authorities to ensure that deported individuals are treated with dignity. He underscored the importance of promoting legal mobility while discouraging illegal immigration, stating that all nations share the responsibility of taking back their citizens if they are found to be residing abroad unlawfully. India is closely engaging with the U.S. to address concerns regarding the treatment of deportees and ensure fair procedures in future deportations.
