iNDICA NEWS BUREAU-
India confirmed on Friday, February 21, that it is aware of deportation flights to Panama and Costa Rica, which are part of an arrangement between the United States and the respective governments.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that the Indian government is in the process of verifying whether the individuals deported are Indian nationals and assured that necessary assistance will be provided to them.
“We are verifying the details of whether the individuals concerned are Indian nationals or not. Once that verification details are complete, then arrangements will be made for them,” Jaiswal stated during a weekly press briefing.
Under the agreement, Costa Rica and Panama have agreed to serve as transit countries for deportees, with the U.S. covering all operational expenses. The Indian mission in Panama, which is also responsible for Costa Rica, is coordinating with local authorities to verify the situation.
“We have seen some reports about deportation flights to Panama and Costa Rica. It is our understanding that these have been undertaken as per a bridge arrangement between the U.S. and the respective governments. Both Costa Rica and Panama have agreed to serve as transit countries for deportees, while the U.S. bears all the costs of the operation,” Jaiswal explained.
The MEA is working closely with local authorities to ensure the safe and dignified return of Indian citizens.
Earlier, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh expressed concerns about the reports of Indian deportees being sent to Panama, criticizing the US’s approach as “inhuman and demeaning”.
Meanwhile, the Indian embassy in Panama, which is also responsible for Nicaragua and Costa Rica, confirmed that a group of Indian nationals had arrived safely in Panama. “They are safe and secure at a Hotel with all essential facilities Embassy team has obtained consular access. We are working closely with the host Government to ensure their wellbeing,” the embassy wrote on X.
(Photo courtesy: IANS)
