Opposition protests erupted in India over the deportation of 104 Indians from the U.S., criticized for being treated in a humiliating manner. Similar concerns arose in Colombia and Brazil regarding deportees being shackled. The U.S. defended the deportation process, citing its necessity for national safety, amidst ongoing global scrutiny of immigration policies.
On February 5, 2025, the deportation of 104 Indians from the United States elicited a strong protest from the opposition in India’s Parliament. Leaders demonstrated by wearing handcuffs, condemning the treatment of deportees, who were reportedly shackled during the flight. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed both Houses, asserting that measures are being taken to ensure deportees are treated humanely during their return. He acknowledged that such deportations are not new but emphasized the importance of engagement with the U.S. government regarding this issue.
The controversial deportations have drawn international attention, particularly under the Trump administration, which has implemented stricter immigration laws. In Colombia, President Gustavo Petro initially denied U.S. military planes landing with deported citizens due to concerns over their treatment but later accepted them in exchange for avoiding tariffs. Brazil also faced criticism after deported immigrants arrived in handcuffs, prompting Justice Minister Ricardo Lewandowski to demand their removal, claiming it violated fundamental rights.
The U.S. Embassy in New Delhi defended the deportations, emphasizing the importance of enforcing immigration laws for national security. While such deportation actions have continued across administrations, the use of military planes for deportations has increased under Trump’s orders. His administration has taken significant steps to expedite the deportation process and broaden the legal scope of such actions, including changes to asylum regulations, affecting those undocumented migrants seeking refuge in the U.S.
Under President Joe Biden, deportations continued robustly, totaling 271,000 in 2024 and an estimated 1.5 million over four years. Trump’s new directives further expedite the removal of undocumented migrants who cannot demonstrate extended presence in the U.S., limiting their opportunities for asylum, which was once a legal right at the border. The policies have raised concerns about the handling and human rights of deported individuals.
Deportation has long been a contentious issue in U.S. immigration policy, with changes in administration often influencing the severity and manner of enforcement. The current dynamics have been particularly criticized following the handling of deportations under the Trump administration, which has faced allegations of inhumane treatment. The diplomatic consequences extend beyond the U.S., affecting bilateral relationships with countries sending their nationals back, leading to protests and reshaping of immigration practices in sender nations.
The uproar surrounding the recent deportation of 104 Indians highlights the ongoing debate over immigration policies and the treatment of deportees. As nations like Colombia and Brazil respond to the U.S. actions, the implications for international relations and human rights are significant. The contrast in approaches under different administrations showcases the complexities surrounding immigration law enforcement and the human rights of migrants seeking asylum.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
