US Military Plane Brings 205 Deported Indians Home Amid Trump’s Crackdown

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US Military Plane Brings 205 Deported Indians

Key Points:

  • US Deportation Crackdown: A US military C-17 aircraft carrying 205 illegal Indian immigrants landed in Amritsar today, marking the first such deportation under President Donald Trump’s second term.
  • Majority from Punjab: Most deportees are from Punjab and neighboring states, many of whom entered the US through illegal routes or overstayed their visas.
  • Punjab Government’s Response: NRI Affairs Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal expressed disappointment over the deportations and emphasized the need for legal migration pathways.
  • Verification Process: The deportees will undergo document verification at the airport before being allowed to leave.

New Delhi: In a significant development, a US military C-17 Globemaster aircraft landed at Shri Guru Ramdas Ji International Airport in Amritsar this afternoon, carrying 205 deported Indian nationals. This marks the first large-scale deportation of Indians under President Donald Trump’s renewed immigration enforcement policies during his second term. The flight, which took off from San Antonio, Texas, included individuals primarily from Punjab and neighboring states who had entered the US illegally or overstayed their visas.

The deportation follows Trump’s directive to tighten immigration laws and use military resources for expedited removals. In recent months, similar flights have been used to deport individuals to Central and South America, but this is the first time such a measure has been applied to India.

Punjab Government Reacts

Punjab NRI Affairs Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal voiced his disappointment over the US government’s decision. He argued that many of these individuals contributed to the American economy and should have been granted permanent residency instead of being deported. Dhaliwal also highlighted that some deportees initially entered the US legally on work permits but became undocumented after their visas expired.

The minister plans to meet External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar next week to discuss the concerns of Punjabis living abroad. He also urged local residents to avoid illegal migration routes, often referred to as “donkey routes,” and instead focus on acquiring skills and education for legal opportunities abroad.

Document Verification at Amritsar Airport

Upon arrival, the deportees underwent a thorough document verification process conducted by Punjab police and immigration officials. While no detentions were reported, authorities ensured all necessary checks were completed before allowing the individuals to leave the airport. Dedicated counters were set up at the airport to streamline this process.

Trump’s Immigration Policies

President Trump’s administration has intensified efforts to curb illegal immigration, using military aircraft for deportations as part of a broader strategy. This approach is seen as more efficient compared to chartered flights previously used under other administrations. The US embassy in India reiterated its stance on illegal migration, stating that it is not worth the risk and emphasizing that border laws will be rigorously enforced.

A Growing Concern in Punjab

Illegal migration has been a persistent issue in Punjab, with many residents resorting to risky and expensive methods to seek better opportunities abroad. Organized networks facilitating such migrations have come under scrutiny from both Indian and US authorities. Experts estimate that over 18,000 Indian nationals are currently identified for deportation from the US.

Future Implications

This deportation highlights shifting dynamics in US-India immigration relations. While India has expressed its willingness to cooperate with Washington on illegal immigration issues, concerns remain about reintegrating these individuals into society and addressing the root causes of illegal migration.

As more flights are expected in the coming months, both governments will need to balance enforcement with humanitarian considerations while addressing broader challenges related to global migration.

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