iNDICA NEWS BUREAU-
In a significant development, 205 Indian nationals who had entered the U.S. illegally were deported on a U.S. military aircraft from Texas, reported Indian media outlet NDTV quoting sources.
The deportation marks the first of what is expected to be many such flights bringing illegal Indian immigrants back to their home country.
The U.S. military’s C-17 aircraft, which took off with the deportees, is reportedly one of the few military aircrafts capable of handling such operations, though with limited facilities — housing 205 passengers and a single toilet unless specially equipped with an air-transportable galley.
Sources confirmed that the deportation process was thoroughly verified, reflecting New Delhi’s active involvement. This move aligns with U.S. President Donald Trump’s tough stance on illegal immigration, which has previously seen military aircraft transporting illegal immigrants back to countries like Guatemala, Peru, and Honduras.
The deportation comes ahead of India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to the U.S. next week, his first since Trump’s second term began.
Earlier, India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar had stated that India is open to facilitating the “legitimate return” of its nationals living illegally abroad, including those in the U.S.
Trump had also noted that Prime Minister Modi assured him that India would “do what’s right” regarding the return of illegal Indian immigrants. According to reports, both India and the U.S. have identified approximately 18,000 Indian nationals who entered the U.S. illegally.
The Ministry of External Affairs has reiterated India’s stance against illegal immigration, which it links to organized crime. A spokesperson stated that if Indian nationals are found to be overstaying or residing in another country without proper documentation, India will take responsibility for their return, provided their nationality is verified.
A U.S. Embassy spokesperson emphasized that the U.S. is “vigorously enforcing its border” and is tightening immigration laws to prevent illegal migration. This message underscores the growing efforts to deter illegal migration and highlight the risks involved.
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