Mass Deportation of Indian Citizens from the US: A Growing Concern
In a significant development, at least 104 Indian citizens were repatriated from the United States on Tuesday night via a US military aircraft. The C-17 transport aircraft landed in Amritsar, Punjab, on Wednesday afternoon, carrying individuals primarily from the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Punjab. This marks one of the longest-distance deportation flights since the US government began using military aircraft for migrant transportation.
The Rising Trend of Illegal Immigration
The deportation highlights a growing trend of illegal immigration from India to the US. Over the past four years, the number of Indian nationals attempting to enter the US illegally has surged dramatically. Government data reveals a stark increase, from 8,027 individuals in the 2018-19 fiscal year to a staggering 96,917 in 2022-23. Many of these individuals embark on perilous journeys through Latin America, often risking their lives in search of better opportunities.
Personal Struggles and Financial Burdens
The deported individuals have faced severe financial and emotional hardships. Many families invested their life savings in these immigration attempts, only to see their loved ones sent back.
One such individual, 23-year-old Akashdeep Singh, had spent nearly $60,000 on his journey to the US. His father sold two-thirds of their land to fund the trip, only for Akashdeep to be detained and deported shortly after his arrival in January. His cousin, Manriasat Singh, expressed mixed emotions, stating, “His parents are relieved that he has not spent years in jail. At least he is alive.”
Similarly, 40-year-old Harwinder Singh from Punjab sought a better future in the US. He paid a travel agent over 4 million rupees (approximately $45,000) for a journey that was supposed to take 15 days but instead lasted nearly 10 months. His wife, Kuljinder Kaur, recounted his harrowing experience—being shuffled across multiple countries in various modes of transport, only to be detained upon arrival.
“When he crossed the border, he went to buy some water and was immediately picked up by the authorities. He was taken to a detention camp, and within days, he was handcuffed and put on a military flight back home. For hours, he and others were denied basic necessities like water and access to restrooms,” she said.
Number of people leaving India is rising
This year 17.50 lakh Indians gave away their citizenship to acquire citizenship of other countries. every year more and more people are leaving India because of the unemployment, better opportunities and for better lifestyle. why has India failed to provide a good lifestyle and equal opportunities to their citizens? but the question is where they are going after leaving India. majority of the people are going to America (USA), Canada, Saudi Arabia and Australia. in these people on the number one is Delhi second is Punjab and Third is Gujarat.
Root Causes: Unemployment and Economic Struggles
The increasing number of illegal immigrants from India is largely driven by economic distress and lack of employment opportunities. Many young Indians view migration as their only chance to secure a better future.
Lakbhir Singh, a former village leader in Punjab, emphasized the desperation of families investing everything to send their children abroad. “Unemployment is forcing our youth to take these extreme steps. Instead of publicizing their deportation, the government should focus on addressing the root causes of this crisis,” he said.
Government Response and Diplomatic Implications
While the Indian government has expressed its willingness to receive deported citizens, local leaders are urging for a more comprehensive approach. Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, Punjab’s Minister of Non-Resident Indian Affairs, called on the Indian federal government to engage in diplomatic discussions with the US to find a long-term solution.
“Prime Minister Narendra Modi should hold discussions with US President Donald Trump to address this pressing issue,” he stated.
The mass deportations highlight the urgent need for policy-level interventions on both sides to prevent illegal immigration while ensuring that economic and employment opportunities are strengthened domestically.
The Way Forward
The increasing number of Indian citizens attempting illegal migration to the US is a clear indication of deeper socio-economic issues that need immediate attention. While stronger immigration policies are being enforced globally, it is crucial for the Indian government to create sustainable employment opportunities and curb exploitative immigration practices.
Families devastated by financial losses and shattered dreams are a testament to the pressing need for a structured solution—one that ensures young Indians do not have to risk their lives for a chance at a better future. The focus must shift from reactive deportation measures to proactive policies that address the root causes of illegal migration.
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