Opposition Protests US Deportations of Indians Amid International Outcry
Recent deportations of 104 Indians from the US have led to considerable opposition protests in India, condemning the shackling of deportees. This incident echoes similar criticisms from Colombia and Brazil, where leaders have reacted strongly against the treatment of their returning citizens. The discourse around deportations highlights changing policies under both Trump and Biden, raising ethical concerns over humane treatment and immigration enforcement.
The Opposition in India voiced significant discontent in Parliament regarding the deportation of 104 Indians from the United States, citing the humiliating treatment of these individuals. Some Opposition leaders expressed their protest by wearing handcuffs, highlighting their concern over the deportees being shackled during their flight back to India. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the matter, affirming that the government is in communication with the US authorities to ensure the humane treatment of returnees during their journey.
The practice of deportations has intensified since the Trump administration, drawing criticism globally. Notably, on January 26, the Colombian government initially refused to allow deported citizens from the US to land due to their treatment while being escorted on military aircraft. However, after threats of increased tariffs from the Trump administration, Colombian President Gustavo Petro agreed to accommodate the flights, emphasizing the need for dignity in the return of deportees.
Similarly, Brazil’s authorities expressed outrage when deported individuals arrived in handcuffs. Justice Minister Ricardo Lewandowski instructed US agents to remove restraints, labeling the treatment as a fundamental rights issue. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva called for Brazilian Air Force support to ensure the responsible and dignified return of Brazilian nationals to their home country.
Amid these discussions, the US Embassy in New Delhi stressed the importance of enforcing US immigration laws for national security and public safety. Although deportations have occurred under previous administrations, the military involvement in these operations is a new aspect. Under President Joe Biden, a significant number of deportations were recorded, totaling over 1.5 million over four years, as outlined by reports in The New York Times.
President Trump’s administration has implemented a myriad of measures to intensify deportations, altering the landscape of immigration enforcement. Noteworthy changes have expanded expedited deportations beyond border areas, targeting undocumented migrants who cannot verify extended residency. This marks a significant departure from prior policies that allowed asylum seekers to present their cases at the US borders, emphasizing a more stringent deportation approach.
The article discusses the recent uproar in India’s Parliament concerning the deportation of 104 Indians from the United States, which was perceived as degrading due to the shackling of deportees. It outlines the international dimension of deportation practices under the Trump administration, with notable reactions from Colombia and Brazil against the treatment of their citizens. The piece also highlights how deportation policies have evolved and intensified in recent years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic and under new presidential directives.
The deportation of Indians from the US has sparked significant backlash from the Opposition in India, leading to public protests emphasizing humane treatment. This situation reflects a broader international criticism against the US’s deportation practices, particularly the perceived inhumane treatment of deportees. With evolving immigration policies under various administrations, the discourse around these issues continues to be relevant and significant in shaping public perception and diplomatic relations.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
