Another US flight carrying Indian migrants set to land in Amritsar today– What’s next?
The second flight of Indian deportees from the US is reportedly expected to arrive in Amritsar between 10 pm and 11 pm on Saturday.
A second U.S. deportation flight carrying 119 Indian nationals is scheduled to arrive at Amritsar's Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport tonight, around 10 PM. This follows a recent meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump, during which immigration issues were discussed.
Deported Indian nationals
The deportees originate from various Indian states: 67 from Punjab, 33 from Haryana, eight from Gujarat, three from Uttar Pradesh, two each from Goa, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan, and one each from Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir. This operation is part of the Trump administration's intensified efforts to address illegal immigration. Earlier this month, on February 5, a similar flight deported 104 Indian nationals, which led to widespread criticism due to reports of inhumane treatment during the deportation process.
Citizens residing illegally
Prime Minister Modi has stated that India is prepared to repatriate its citizens residing illegally in the U.S. He emphasized the need to combat the human trafficking networks that mislead individuals into illegal migration. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has questioned the decision to land the deportation flights in Amritsar, suggesting it may be an attempt to defame Punjab and Punjabis.
Enforcement and humanitarian
The deportees are expected to undergo verification procedures upon arrival, including identity checks and debriefings about their experiences. Families of the deportees are anticipated to gather at the airport, anxious to reunite with their loved ones after prolonged separations. This event underscores the ongoing challenges of illegal immigration and the complex dynamics between enforcement and humanitarian considerations.
