Web Desk
In a recent wave of deportations, 104 Indian nationals were returned from the United States to India, shedding light on the perilous journeys many undertake in pursuit of better opportunities. These individuals, hailing from various states including Punjab, Haryana, and Gujarat, recounted their arduous travels through multiple countries, only to face detention and deportation upon reaching the U.S.
Perilous Journeys and Financial Strain
Many deportees described traversing treacherous routes, often referred to as ‘dunki routes,’ which involved crossing rivers, dense forests, and multiple international borders. For instance, 27-year-old Robin Handa from Haryana’s Kurukshetra district journeyed through Guyana, Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and Guatemala, enduring hunger and extortion before reaching the Mexico-U.S. border. His family paid approximately ₹4.5 million to various agents, selling assets and mortgaging property to fund his trip.
Detention and Deportation Conditions
Upon apprehension by U.S. authorities, many deportees reported being handcuffed and shackled during their return flight. Jaspal Singh, a 36-year-old from Punjab, recounted, “We were handcuffed and our legs were chained. These were opened at the Amritsar airport.” He added that they were unaware of their deportation until mid-flight.
Government Response and Political Repercussions
The deportations have sparked political debate in India. Opposition lawmakers protested in Parliament, condemning the alleged mistreatment of deportees and demanding government accountability. External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar acknowledged the standard U.S. procedures during deportations and emphasized India’s commitment to cracking down on illegal migration while ensuring deportees are treated humanely.
The Broader Issue of Illegal Migration
This incident underscores the broader challenges of illegal migration from India. Many individuals, driven by the allure of better economic prospects, fall victim to unscrupulous agents who promise safe passage to Western countries. The financial and emotional toll on families is immense, often resulting in significant debt and societal stigma upon the deportees’ return.
As global migration policies tighten, the plight of these deported individuals highlights the need for increased awareness and stricter regulations to prevent exploitation by human smuggling networks.
