‘We are engaging with the US government’ Jaishankar On Deportation of Indians from US.
India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, recently addressed the contentious topic of Indian nationals being deported from the United States. During the Budget Session 2025 in Rajya Sabha, Jaishankar emphasized that it is the “obligation of all countries” to repatriate their citizens found living illegally abroad.
Jaishankar underscored India’s commitment to ensuring that the deportees are treated with dignity. “We are engaging with the US government to ensure that the deportees are not mistreated in any manner,” he stated. This assurance comes amidst protests by opposition MPs in Parliament, who criticized the manner of deportation, especially after more than 100 Indians were returned to India on a military aircraft from the US.
The minister also pointed out the need to address the root of the problem by cracking down on the illegal immigration industry. He mentioned that based on information from the deportees, law enforcement would take necessary actions against the agents facilitating such illegal migrations.
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The recent incident involved a US military aircraft landing in Amritsar, carrying over 100 Indian citizens who had migrated illegally. The demographic breakdown showed a significant number from states like Haryana, Gujarat, Punjab, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Chandigarh. This event sparked a debate in the Indian Parliament, with MPs like Gurujit Singh Aujla visually protesting by wearing handcuffs to symbolize the treatment of the deportees.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor brought attention to the method of deportation, arguing that while the US has the right to deport illegal residents, the use of military aircraft was “unnecessary” and lacked humanity. Tharoor suggested that commercial or civilian flights should be used for such purposes, ensuring a more humane approach to deportation.
Jaishankar also noted that the deportation of Indians from the US is not a new issue, mentioning that over 1,100 Indians were deported in 2024 under the Biden administration. This reflects a consistent policy by the US regarding illegal immigration, which has been a topic of international discussion and bilateral negotiations.
This matter has brought to light the complexities of international migration laws, the treatment of migrants, and the responsibilities of nations towards their citizens abroad. As discussions continue, the focus will likely shift towards creating more structured, legal pathways for migration and ensuring that those who are deported are handled with respect and dignity.
The dialogue initiated by Jaishankar in the Rajya Sabha not only addresses immediate concerns but also sets the stage for broader discussions on immigration policies, international relations, and human rights in the context of global migration.
