Jaishankar: 15-year US deportations of Indians.
Since 2009, a total of 15,756 illegal Indian immigrants have been deported from the United States to India, according to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. The data highlights the scale of deportations over the past 15 years. Jaishankar shared this information while addressing concerns about immigration and visa policies. The US has been actively enforcing its immigration laws, leading to deportations of individuals without legal status. India continues to engage in diplomatic discussions on immigration issues. The figures reflect the broader challenges of illegal migration and the need for structured policies to address concerns of Indian nationals living abroad.
Amid the ongoing Opposition outcry regarding the deportation of over 100 illegal Indian immigrants by the United States, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the issue in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday. He stated that such actions by US authorities were “not new” and provided data on the number of Indians deported over the past 15 years. Since 2009, a total of 15,756 illegal Indian immigrants have been deported from the US to India, highlighting a long-standing enforcement of immigration laws.
“The process of deportation (by the US) is not new… it has been there for years. Our focus should be on the crackdown on illegal migrants… We are engaging with the US to ensure deportees are not mistreated,” Jaishankar emphasized in his statement.
According to the data shared by the minister, the year 2019 witnessed the highest number of deportations, with 2,042 Indians sent back. This was followed by 1,889 deportations in 2020, the year of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Year-wise Data of Indians Deported from the US:
- 2009: 734
- 2010: 799
- 2011: 597
- 2012: 530
- 2013: 515
- 2014: 591
- 2015: 708
- 2016: 1,303
- 2017: 1,024
- 2018: 1,180
- 2019: 2,042
- 2020: 1,889
- 2021: 805
- 2022: 862
- 2023: 617
- 2024: 1,368
- 2025 (till February 5): 104
The latest incident involved a US military aircraft carrying 104 illegal Indian immigrants, which landed in Amritsar on Wednesday. This marked the first batch of Indian deportees under the Trump administration’s intensified crackdown on illegal immigration. The group consisted of individuals from various states, including 33 from Haryana, 33 from Gujarat, 30 from Punjab, three from Maharashtra, three from Uttar Pradesh, and two from Chandigarh.
Human Trafficking and Exploitation
Many of these deportees had invested substantial sums of money—often acquired through loans—under the false promise of legal entry into the US. However, instead of lawful admission, they were subjected to arduous and treacherous multi-country journeys organized by human traffickers. These networks exploit desperate migrants, taking advantage of their aspirations for a better life while exposing them to significant physical and financial risks.
US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Procedures
Jaishankar clarified the process of deportation followed by US authorities, particularly the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Diplomatic Engagement and India’s Stance
The Indian government continues to engage in discussions with the US regarding the treatment of deported individuals. Jaishankar reassured Parliament that ensuring the dignity and fair treatment of Indian citizens remains a key priority in diplomatic negotiations. India is actively working to prevent illegal migration by strengthening border security, enforcing stricter visa regulations, and raising awareness about the dangers of unauthorized travel through human traffickers.
Broader Implications of Deportation
The rising number of deportations indicates a broader shift in global immigration policies. Several countries, including the US, have intensified their enforcement mechanisms, leading to increased scrutiny of undocumented migrants. This development has far-reaching implications for Indian nationals who seek opportunities abroad, as stricter policies could lead to more deportations in the future.
The Role of Human Trafficking Networks
Human trafficking networks play a crucial role in illegal migration. Unscrupulous agents and traffickers exploit vulnerable individuals, promising them secure jobs and legal residency in foreign countries. These individuals often undertake perilous journeys, crossing multiple borders under hazardous conditions, only to be detained and deported upon arrival in the destination country.
The Indian government has been taking steps to combat human trafficking and illegal migration by cracking down on fraudulent travel agents and increasing public awareness of the risks associated with unauthorized migration.
Conclusion
The deportation of 15,756 illegal Indian immigrants from the US since 2009 underscores the complex and persistent challenge of illegal migration. While deportations are not a new phenomenon, the increasing numbers highlight the need for comprehensive immigration policies, both within India and in coordination with foreign governments. As the Indian government continues its diplomatic engagements with the US, the focus remains on ensuring the fair treatment of deported individuals while addressing the root causes of illegal migration, including human trafficking and economic vulnerabilities.
In light of these developments, potential migrants are urged to explore legal avenues for immigration and employment abroad, avoiding unverified agents and deceptive promises. The government also continues to educate citizens on the consequences of illegal migration and the importance of lawful international travel. India’s diplomatic efforts will remain focused on safeguarding its citizens’ rights while upholding immigration laws and policies in collaboration with international authorities.