By The Sampadak Express
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar made an official statement in the Rajya Sabha regarding the deportation of alleged illegal Indian immigrants from the United States. This development comes amid growing concerns in India following the deportation of 104 individuals who were allegedly residing illegally in the US. Jaishankar’s remarks shed light on India’s stance and the steps being taken to ensure that the deportees are treated fairly.
India’s Obligation in Addressing Illegal Immigration
In his statement, Jaishankar emphasized that it is the responsibility of all countries to take back their nationals who are found to be residing illegally abroad. He pointed out that the practice of deportation is governed by clear procedures and regulations. Notably, he referred to the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) followed by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which has been in place since 2012. According to this SOP, restraints are used during deportation, although Jaishankar assured that ICE has informed the Indian government that women and children are not subjected to such measures. He made it clear that these deportations are organized and executed by ICE authorities.
Jaishankar also highlighted that India is actively engaging with the US government to ensure that the deportees are treated with dignity and are not mistreated in any manner during the process.
India’s Focus on Cracking Down on Illegal Immigration
The Minister also emphasized India’s strong commitment to addressing the issue of illegal immigration. He underscored the need for a decisive crackdown against the networks and agents involved in facilitating illegal immigration. Jaishankar stressed that law enforcement agencies in India would take swift and necessary action against those involved in illegal immigration activities based on the information provided by the deportees. The action would include preventive and exemplary measures aimed at curbing the illegal immigration industry.
Opposition Raises Concerns in Parliament
Meanwhile, the opposition raised concerns over the issue in Parliament. The Lok Sabha was adjourned temporarily amid an uproar by opposition members, especially Congress MPs, who sought to address the matter. Speaker Om Birla, trying to maintain order, assured the opposition that the government had taken note of their concerns seriously. He also reminded the house that the matter falls under foreign policy and must be dealt with accordingly. Birla requested the opposition members to allow the Question Hour to proceed and raise their concerns later.
The deportation issue also stirred a protest among opposition lawmakers, who were vocal about the treatment of the deported individuals. They expressed their dissatisfaction with the manner in which the deportations were carried out.
Details of the Deportation
On Wednesday, a US military aircraft carrying 104 individuals landed at Shri Guru Ramdas Ji International Airport in Amritsar. These individuals, allegedly illegal immigrants, were deported by US authorities as part of the ongoing crackdown on illegal immigration. The deportees hailed from various states in India, with 33 each from Haryana and Gujarat, 30 from Punjab, three each from Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, and two from Chandigarh.
Many of the deported individuals from Punjab are believed to have entered the US through illegal routes, spending large sums of money to gain entry. Reports suggest that many of these individuals had been using “donkey routes” or other means to cross into the US, often with the help of illegal agents. The crackdown on illegal immigration began in earnest under the administration of former President Donald Trump, who made it a priority to address illegal immigration to the US.
US and India Relations Amid Deportation Crisis
As India continues to engage with the US over the deportation issue, both governments are expected to work closely to ensure that deportations are handled in accordance with international standards, while also safeguarding the rights and dignity of Indian citizens. This issue could further shape the diplomatic discourse between the two nations, particularly as Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Washington approaches.
In conclusion, while India remains committed to protecting the interests of its citizens, the government also recognizes the importance of abiding by international laws and cooperating with foreign governments on issues such as illegal immigration. The ongoing diplomatic discussions with the US reflect India’s stance on ensuring fair treatment for its nationals while addressing the broader issue of illegal immigration.
