A U.S. military C-17 aircraft is scheduled to land in Amritsar, Punjab, on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at 9:00 AM, carrying approximately 205 Indian nationals who have been deported from the United States. This deportation is part of President Donald Trump’s intensified immigration policies aimed at curbing illegal immigration.
Background of the Deportation
The deported individuals are primarily from Punjab and neighboring states. Many had entered the U.S. through unauthorized channels, investing significant sums in the process. The U.S. government’s decision to deport these individuals aligns with President Trump’s broader strategy to enforce stricter immigration controls.
Reactions from Indian Officials
Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, Punjab’s Minister for Non-Resident Indian (NRI) Affairs, expressed disappointment over the deportations. He emphasized that these individuals had contributed to the U.S. economy and should have been considered for permanent residency rather than deportation.
Gaurav Yadav, the Director General of Police (DGP) in Punjab, confirmed that the matter was discussed in a meeting. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann directed the establishment of reception counters to assist the returning individuals. The DGP mentioned that the Punjab government is in communication with the central authorities and will provide updates as information becomes available.
U.S. Immigration Policy Under President Trump
Since taking office on January 20, 2025, President Trump has implemented stringent immigration policies, leading to large-scale deportations. The U.S. military has been utilized for deportation flights, including the current one to India. These military flights are notably expensive; for instance, a recent flight to Guatemala cost approximately $4,675 per migrant.
India’s Response and Cooperation
India has been proactive in addressing the issue of illegal immigration. The Indian government has offered to repatriate up to 18,000 undocumented Indian migrants from the U.S. This initiative aims to demonstrate India’s commitment to managing illegal immigration and to negotiate for the protection of key visa programs vital for skilled workers and students.
The arrival of the U.S. military aircraft in Amritsar underscores the ongoing challenges in managing illegal immigration. While the deportations reflect the U.S. government’s firm stance on immigration, they also highlight the need for continued cooperation between the U.S. and India to address the complexities of migration and to ensure the well-being of the individuals affected.
