Bigger concern is the persistent trend of illegal migration. India has been witnessing substantial outward migration, driven by aspirations for a better life in developed nations
The arrival of a United States military aircraft carrying 104 illegal Indian immigrants in Amritsar on February 5, 2025 sent a clear message from the American government. Reports indicating that many of them were handcuffed and shackled highlight the US administration’s firm stance on the issue. The decision to use a military aircraft, which is typically more expensive than commercial planes, appears to be a deliberate move to underscore the gravity of the situation. Images of restrained immigrants are likely to resonate with President Donald Trump’s core supporters. While the US regularly deports illegal immigrants from various developing and impoverished nations, the use of military transport for such operations is uncommon. This choice seems intended to make a strong statement.
Trump firmly believes that a major factor behind his electoral mandate last year was his commitment to curbing illegal immigration, and he is following through on that pledge. There is a widespread perception—partially supported by official data—that the number of individuals crossing the border without proper documentation surged significantly after 2020.
The deportation of hundreds of Indians from the US, identified as illegal immigrants, is neither unexpected nor unprecedented. In recent years, the US government has intensified its Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations to locate, detain, and deport undocumented individuals. Between June and October 2024, the department of homeland security reported that 160,000 individuals were deported on 495 international repatriation flights to over 145 countries, including India. However, the manner and timing of these deportations raise concerns for New Delhi. Firstly, this crackdown coincides with Donald Trump’s assumption of office as US President in January, following his firm stance on illegal immigration as a top priority. With an estimated 725,000 undocumented Indians residing in the US, India must brace for a substantial rise in returning migrants. Secondly, the use of military aircraft for deportations marks a significant shift, signalling that the US is taking an uncompromising approach. This move has sparked criticism, including objections from Colombian President Gustavo Petro, especially after reports surfaced of deportees being shackled. The US embassy in Delhi has clarified that these deportations are part of a broader strategy to strengthen immigration laws, reinforcing the message that illegal migration carries severe consequences. Additionally, the timing—just ahead of Prime Minister Modi’s scheduled US visit—suggests that diplomatic negotiations alone may not dissuade the Trump administration from its strict immigration policies. This development has the potential to emerge as a contentious issue in India-US relations.
The recent deportation of Indian immigrants from the US has raised multiple concerns that require immediate attention. With over 18,000 undocumented Indians identified for deportation, the Indian government must address both logistical and diplomatic aspects of the issue. One pressing question is why the deportation flight was directed to Amritsar instead of Delhi. Given that Delhi houses key central agencies, it would have been more practical for officials there to record statements from the deportees. This decision calls for better coordination in handling such operations.
Additionally, while India has accepted these returnees without resistance, it must firmly engage with the US administration regarding the treatment of Indian citizens during deportation, particularly the use of military aircraft. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar informed Parliament that the US had adhered to standard operating procedures. However, India continues to engage with US authorities to ensure that deportees are treated with dignity. Since this deportation process is expected to continue for some time, India must collaborate with the US to ensure its smooth execution. The government should also be prepared to offer logistical support, if necessary, to safeguard Indian citizens and reinforce the message that illegal immigration carries risks.
Beyond the immediate issue of deportation, the larger concern is the persistent trend of illegal migration. India has been witnessing substantial outward migration, driven by aspirations for a better quality of life in developed nations. Many Indian students who pursue higher education abroad choose to stay due to better job prospects. Indians have also made remarkable contributions in fields such as technology, especially in Silicon Valley. However, the individuals being deported now do not belong to such professional or student categories. Reports indicate that many come from relatively well-off states and may have paid large sums to enter the US illegally, suggesting that their decision was stimulated by a lack of economic opportunities in India.
To address this issue, India must focus on rapid economic growth and job creation to reduce the push factors behind illegal migration. Additionally, it is crucial to dismantle the networks that facilitate illegal entry into foreign countries. These operations not only endanger the lives of Indian citizens but also strain India’s diplomatic relations. A strict crackdown on such networks, along with stronger economic prospects at home, will help curb illegal migration in the long run. If swift and decisive measures are not implemented, the ongoing deportation of Indian nationals under Trump’s stringent immigration policies could become a persistent concern, straining India-US relations and affecting India’s global reputation. Therefore, tackling illegal migration with urgency and foresight is important. Indian policymakers must adopt a comprehensive and proactive strategy to address illegal migration before more flights ordered by Trump return individuals to India.
(Shivanand Pandit is a tax specialist, financial adviser and guest lecturer based in Goa.)
