A group of 205 Indian nationals, who had entered the United States illegally, have been deported aboard a US military C-17 aircraft, which departed from Texas just hours ago, sources told . Each deported individual was verified, suggesting collaboration between New Delhi and Washington in the deportation process. This flight marks what could be the first of several planned deportations of Indian immigrants from the US.
The deportation aligns with US President Donald Trump’s stringent policy on illegal immigration. Previously, similar flights have deported migrants to countries like Guatemala, Peru, and Honduras. This latest move comes just days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit the US, his first since Trump began his second term as President.
Growing Crackdown on Illegal Immigration
The US government has intensified its crackdown on illegal immigration, with recent policy shifts leading to increased deportations and stricter visa scrutiny. The Trump administration has expanded its enforcement efforts, including the use of military aircraft for deportations—a measure aimed at expediting the removal process.
For many deported Indian migrants, their journey to the US was marked by perilous routes, often involving human smuggling networks that facilitate illegal crossings through Central America and Mexico. Many individuals pay hefty sums to these networks in hopes of securing a better life in the US, only to face legal challenges and eventual deportation.
Impact on Indo-US Relations
The deportation comes at a time when India and the US are strengthening their strategic and economic ties. While India has affirmed its commitment to taking back its undocumented nationals, the issue of illegal immigration has been a point of discussion in high-level diplomatic engagements.
External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has expressed India’s willingness to facilitate the “legitimate return” of Indian nationals living illegally abroad, including in the United States. However, India has also urged the US to adopt a fair and humane approach in dealing with undocumented immigrants, ensuring that due process is followed before deportations are carried out.
“For the first time in history, we are locating and loading illegal aliens into military aircraft and flying them back to the places from which they came,” President Trump stated last month, emphasizing his administration’s firm stance on illegal immigration.
Trump has also noted that Prime Minister Modi assured him India would “do what’s right” in taking back its citizens. Reports suggest that India and the US have identified approximately 18,000 Indian migrants who entered the US unlawfully.
Economic and Social Consequences
The deportation of Indian nationals raises concerns about the economic and social impact on those affected. Many deported individuals may struggle to reintegrate into Indian society, particularly if they have spent years abroad and lack immediate employment opportunities. Some experts warn that mass deportations could put pressure on local economies in states that see high rates of migration, such as Punjab and Gujarat, which have historically been hotspots for illegal migration to the US.
The Ministry of External Affairs has reaffirmed India’s stance against illegal immigration, highlighting its association with organized crime. Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “India is committed to taking back its nationals who are residing illegally abroad, whether in the United States or any other country. If individuals are found to be overstaying or lacking proper documentation, we will facilitate their return, provided we receive the necessary documents to verify their Indian nationality.”
This deportation initiative reflects ongoing international cooperation and India’s commitment to addressing illegal immigration while maintaining its diplomatic ties with global partners. However, with thousands of Indian migrants still facing deportation, the issue is likely to remain a key topic in Indo-US relations in the coming months.