'Returned illegal aliens' says USBP, chief in video: Deportees shackled on military flight to India
In a dramatic show of force, the US deported 104 Indian nationals aboard a military aircraft, with passengers claiming they were shackled throughout the journey.
A US military aircraft carrying 104 Indian nationals deported for illegal immigration landed in Amritsar on Wednesday. The deportees claim they were shackled in handcuffs and leg restraints throughout the flight. This marks one of the most high-profile deportations under the US's intensified immigration crackdown.
A military flight home
In a striking display of immigration enforcement, the United States deported 104 Indian nationals aboard a C-17 Globemaster aircraft of the US Air Force. The military transport, which landed at Amritsar airport at 1:55 PM on Wednesday, carried individuals accused of illegally entering the US. However, the real controversy erupted when deportees revealed that they had been kept in shackles for the entire journey.
US border patrol's bold warning
US Border Patrol (USBP) chief Michael W. Banks released a video showing Indian nationals in handcuffs and leg restraints while boarding the deportation aircraft."USBP and partners successfully returned illegal aliens to India, marking the farthest deportation flight yet using military transport. This mission underscores our commitment to enforcing immigration laws and ensuring swift removals. If you cross illegally, you will be removed," Banks stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Every day, USBP and partners work together to apprehend, identify, and remove illegal aliens from the U.S. pic.twitter.com/P27lRGsty4
— Chief Michael W. Banks (@USBPChief) February 4, 2025
Human rights concerns over shackling
The use of shackles on deported individuals has sparked outrage, with immigration activists questioning whether such measures were necessary. While US authorities argue that strict security protocols must be followed during deportation, many see this as an excessive and dehumanizing practice. Reports suggest that similar deportations may continue as the US tightens its immigration policies.
A tough stance on immigration
This latest deportation marks the first such large-scale removal of Indian nationals under President Donald Trump’s second-term immigration crackdown. The administration has vowed to take a hard line on illegal immigration, increasing deportations and enforcing stricter border policies. With elections approaching, immigration remains a hot-button issue in the US political landscape.
What's next for the deportees?
Upon arrival in India, the deported individuals underwent immigration processing before being released. Many now face an uncertain future, having invested heavily in their attempts to settle in the US. Families and legal experts are calling for government intervention to support those returning under such harsh conditions.
As US immigration policies tighten, the fate of thousands of undocumented immigrants hangs in the balance, making this deportation a stark warning for those attempting illegal entry.
