Recent Deportation of 104 Indians...!!!

On February 5, 2025, a US military C-17 Globemaster aircraft landed at Amritsar's Shri Guru Ramdas Ji International Airport, carrying 104 deported Indian nationals. This marked the first time the US employed a military aircraft for deporting immigrants from India. The individuals were picked up at the US-Mexico border after entering the US illegally or overstaying their visas.

Breakdown of Deportees

The deportees originated from various Indian states, predominantly Haryana, Gujarat, and Punjab. Here's the state-wise distribution:

• Haryana: 35 individuals

• Gujarat: 33 individuals

• Punjab: 31 individuals

• Uttar Pradesh: 3 individuals

• Maharashtra: 2 individuals

• Chandigarh: 2 individuals

Among the deportees were 25 women and 13 children, including a four-year-old boy and two girls aged five and seven years. Nearly half of the deportees, 48 individuals, were under the age of 25.

Journey and Arrival

The C-17 aircraft departed from San Antonio, Texas, and arrived in Amritsar at 1:55 PM IST. The flight had 11 crew members and 45 US officials to ensure the migrants' safe repatriation. Upon arrival, the deportees were processed through special counters at the airport, and arrangements were made for their transportation back to their hometowns.

Background and Circumstances

Many of the deportees had pursued the "American dream" but encountered legal troubles due to their immigration status. Some had paid substantial amounts to illegal immigration agents to facilitate their journey to the US. For instance, a family from Gujarat claimed to have paid Rs 1 crore to reach the US. The deportees were detained at the US-Mexico border about 10 days before their return.

Reactions and Support

Upon their return, the Punjab government and local authorities made arrangements to warmly receive the deportees. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and NRI Affairs Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal assured that all possible assistance would be provided to the individuals. The state police and government officials coordinated the deportees' transfer and arrival.

Future Implications

The Union government did not rule out the possibility of more deportation flights from the US, indicating that all repatriated citizens with verified antecedents would be accepted back. This event aligns with the US administration's stance against illegal immigration and its efforts to secure borders.

The recent deportation of 104 Indians underscores the challenges faced by individuals seeking better opportunities abroad and the stringent immigration policies in place. It also highlights the importance of legal migration pathways and raising awareness about the risks associated with illegal immigration.