Indians deported from the U.S. being escorted by the police as they leave the airport upon their arrival, in Amritsar, early Sunday on February 16, 2025.
| Photo Credit: PTI
116 Undocumented Indian Migrants Deported from U.S., Arrive Handcuffed in Amritsar
A recent influx of 116 undocumented Indian migrants arrived in Amritsar, Punjab, from the United States, bringing to light the harsh realities faced by illegal immigrants during their deportation. These individuals were aboard a U.S. military plane, handcuffed and chained throughout their journey, a practice that has sparked debate on human rights and immigration policies.
Condition of Deportees Highlighted
Daljit Singh, one of the deportees, spoke to media in Hoshiarpur, sharing his experience. He stated, “We were handcuffed with our legs chained during the journey.” This revelation came after a similar incident on February 5, when another batch of 104 deportees were brought to Amritsar under similar circumstances, drawing widespread criticism.
Political Backlash and Public Reaction
The harsh treatment of deportees has not gone unnoticed. Leading opposition figure P. Chidambaram took to social media, questioning the practice and its implications on diplomatic relations. He stated, “Will the deportees be handcuffed and their legs tied with ropes? It is a test for Indian diplomacy.”
Breakdown of Deportees
Among the 116 deportees, a majority hailed from Punjab (65), with significant numbers from Haryana (33), Gujarat (8), and smaller numbers from other states including Uttar Pradesh, Goa, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu and Kashmir. This influx suggests a substantial issue of irregular migration from these regions.
Government Response and Post-Arrival Process
The deportees underwent immigration and background checks upon arrival. Those from Punjab were transported home in police vehicles, while the Haryana government arranged separate transportation. However, the Punjab Police arrested two individuals, Sandeep Singh and Pradeep Singh, from Rajpura in Patiala district, on suspicion of involvement in a 2023 murder case.
Investigation into Illegal Migration
Recognizing the implications of irregular migration, the Punjab Police established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate human trafficking and illegal migration activities. This proactive approach aims to address the root causes and mitigate future incidents.
Humanitarian Concerns and Broader Implications
The repeated incidents of deportee mistreatment highlight the need for a human-centric approach to immigration policies. While safety and security are paramount, the importance of humane treatment cannot be underestimated. Such practices not only strain diplomatic relations but also raise significant humanitarian concerns.
Conclusion
The recent deportations of Indians from the U.S. to Amritsar underscore the complex dynamics of immigration and the importance of equitable practices. As irregular migration continues to grow, addressing these issues with both firmness and compassion is crucial.
Published – February 16, 2025 12:19 pm IST
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