15,756 Indian Deportations from the U.S. Over 15 Years
Deportations Not a New Phenomenon, Says External Affairs Minister: Amid growing political discourse on the recent deportation of over 100 Indian nationals from the United States, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar clarified that such repatriations have been an ongoing process for years. Addressing the Rajya Sabha, he disclosed that since 2009, a total of 15,756 illegal Indian immigrants have been deported from the U.S., emphasizing that this policy is not unique to India but applies universally.
The minister underscored that India remains engaged with U.S. authorities to ensure that deported individuals are not mistreated. The Indian government’s primary focus, he stated, should be on curbing illegal migration rather than politicizing deportation figures.
Deportation Figures Over the Years
Jaishankar provided a year-wise breakdown of Indian deportations from the U.S., revealing that 2019 recorded the highest number of removals at 2,042. The following year, 2020, also witnessed a significant number of deportations, with 1,889 Indians sent back amid the global disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Annual Deportation Data (2009-2025)
Controversy Over Recent Deportations
The most recent deportation of 104 Indian migrants has sparked significant political debate. A U.S. military aircraft carrying these individuals landed in Amritsar, making it the first such large-scale removal under the Donald Trump administration’s renewed immigration enforcement policies.
Among those deported, the highest numbers originated from Haryana and Gujarat, with 33 individuals each, followed by 30 from Punjab, three each from Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, and two from Chandigarh. Reports suggest that many of these individuals had invested large sums—often obtained through loans—believing they would gain legal entry into the U.S. Instead, they faced arduous multi-country journeys facilitated by human traffickers, ultimately ending in deportation.
Concerns Over Treatment of Deportees
The manner in which deportees were transported has raised concerns. Videos shared by U.S. Border Patrol showed individuals being handcuffed and shackled at the ankles, forced to shuffle as they were led onto the plane—measures typically associated with dangerous criminals.
This has drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders in India, who have questioned why the Indian government did not intervene to facilitate their return in a more dignified manner.
Opposition Criticizes Government Response
Opposition members, particularly from the Trinamool Congress, have strongly opposed the treatment of deported Indian citizens. Party MP Saket Gokhale questioned why India, despite being the world’s fifth-largest economy, did not arrange a special flight to bring back its citizens with dignity. He compared India’s response to that of Colombia, which intervened in a similar case to ensure the safe and respectful return of its nationals.
Jaishankar Clarifies ICE Procedures
In response to concerns raised in Parliament, Jaishankar explained that deportations are managed by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under established protocols. He noted that the procedure, including the use of restraints, has been in place since 2012. However, he reassured that ICE does not restrain women and children and that necessary provisions—such as food, medical assistance, and toilet breaks—are ensured during transit.
The minister reiterated that India continues to work with the U.S. to address concerns about deportation protocols while focusing on larger issues of illegal migration.
The Broader Implication of U.S. Immigration Policies
While deportations have been occurring for years, the recent developments indicate a stricter immigration stance by the U.S. government. This raises questions about the future of Indian migrants attempting to enter the U.S. illegally and the role of human trafficking networks that exploit their aspirations.
With increasing scrutiny on immigration policies, both in India and abroad, the discussion around deportations is likely to continue, shaping diplomatic engagements between the two nations in the years to come.
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