New Delhi: In a significant move under the Trump administration’s stricter immigration policy, the United States has initiated the deportation of Indian nationals who entered the country illegally. This marks the first instance of such deportations since Donald Trump’s return to the White House. According to a Reuters report, the action is part of a broader strategy by the administration to enforce immigration laws more strictly and expel undocumented migrants.
The first batch of deported Indian migrants is being transported aboard a US military C-17 cargo jet, which is en route to India. The jet is expected to arrive in Amritsar, carrying approximately 205 individuals identified as illegal migrants. Sources suggest the flight will take around 24 hours to reach its destination. While the Indian government has yet to comment on the deportations, such actions typically spark debates over the treatment and reintegration of deportees upon their return.
A spokesperson for the US embassy in New Delhi confirmed that the US is actively monitoring and enforcing its borders but refrained from providing specific details about the deportation flight. The embassy official emphasized that these deportations are part of a broader effort to deter illegal migration, stating, “Illegal migration is not worth the risk.”
The US has previously deported large numbers of Indian migrants, with estimates indicating around 18,000 individuals, most of whom are believed to come from states like Gujarat and Punjab. The real number, however, remains unclear as the full scale of illegal Indian migration to the US is yet to be determined.
Under Trump’s administration, immigration enforcement has been a top priority, especially for countries with significant immigrant populations. As part of his tougher stance, Trump has utilized military resources to expedite deportations, including military aircraft for repatriation flights to countries such as Guatemala, Peru, and Honduras.
During a recent conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Trump addressed the issue of immigration, stressing that India would take the necessary steps regarding the repatriation of illegal migrants. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs had previously indicated a more streamlined process for Indian citizens overstaying in the US or living abroad without proper documentation.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has also emphasized India’s willingness to confirm the citizenship of those facing deportation. “We have always maintained that if our citizens are in any country illegally and we can confirm their citizenship, we are open to their legitimate return,” Jaishankar stated.
The deportation of Indian nationals, a country that is a major source of skilled labor migration to the US, raises significant concerns about the ongoing challenges surrounding immigration reform. The logistical complexity of using military aircraft for such repatriations signals a new phase in the US’s enforcement strategy. It is likely to fuel further discussions about balancing law enforcement with humanitarian concerns, as well as the economic impact of such deportations on both India and the US.
