Amritsar, February 5 In a major crackdown on illegal immigration, the United States has deported 104 Indian nationals, sending them back to India aboard a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster aircraft. The plane landed at the Indian Air Force base in Amritsar early Wednesday morning, marking a significant development in America’s new immigration enforcement strategy.
Among the deported individuals, 30 are from Punjab, while Haryana and Gujarat account for 33 each. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has identified a total of 205 undocumented Indians for deportation, with 186 names already listed, though details about the remaining individuals and their deportation timeline remain unclear.
Strict U.S. Immigration Measures Targeting Undocumented Indians
The deportation comes as part of the United States’ tougher immigration stance, with over 19,000 undocumented Indian immigrants reportedly on the deportation list. This move aligns with former U.S. President Donald Trump’s aggressive policies on illegal migration, which continue to shape America’s immigration enforcement strategy.
This mass deportation also comes at a crucial diplomatic moment, as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit the U.S. on February 12, followed by a meeting with Trump on February 13. The timing has raised questions about the political implications of this immigration crackdown.
First Time a U.S. Military Aircraft Deports Illegal Migrants to India
The C-17 Globemaster departed from San Antonio, U.S., at 3 AM (IST) on February 4.
This marks the first instance of the U.S. using a military aircraft for deportation to India.
The cost of the operation is estimated at ₹6 crore ($720,000), nearly six times the cost of a chartered civilian flight.
According to officials, this move signals a strong message from the U.S. government on its commitment to enforcing immigration laws and reducing the number of undocumented migrants in the country.
Verification & Repatriation Process in India
Upon landing in Amritsar, the deported individuals underwent verification by airport security officials. Following immigration and customs clearance, they were handed over to Punjab Police for further processing.
Deportation Breakdown & Repatriation Plan:
30 individuals from Punjab, 33 from Haryana, and 33 from Gujarat
8-10 year-old children among deported families
Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh residents to be sent home by road
Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh residents may be flown back via domestic flights
The presence of children among the deportees has raised concerns over the humanitarian aspects of mass deportation policies and their impact on affected families.
Diplomatic & Political Ramifications
The use of a U.S. military aircraft for deportation underscores the seriousness of the immigration enforcement measures. It also brings attention to:
The growing number of undocumented Indians in the U.S. and the challenges of illegal migration
How India and the U.S. will address immigration issues during Modi’s upcoming visit
The need for diplomatic discussions on the rights of Indian immigrants
With thousands of Indians still at risk of deportation, this move has sparked concern and debate over the future of Indian migrants in the United States.
Final Thoughts: A Turning Point in U.S.-India Immigration Relations?
The deportation of 104 Indians via a U.S. military aircraft is a significant moment in international immigration enforcement. It reflects the strict policies of the U.S. government, while also raising concerns about the treatment and fate of undocumented Indian migrants.
As Prime Minister Modi prepares for his U.S. visit, immigration is likely to be a key agenda point in discussions with the American leadership. The coming weeks may provide further clarity on the long-term implications of this deportation drive.
U.S. Deports 104 Indians Under New Immigration Policy: Military Aircraft Lands in Amritsar
