On February 5, 2025, the U.S. military plane landed in India as a response to the growing wave of illegal immigration, with data showing that over 25,000 Indians attempted to cross the U.S.-Mexico border last year alone. Despite some support from Indian officials regarding these deportations, criticism has emerged, particularly from Punjab's minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, who called for a more compassionate approach and urged the Indian government to reconsider their acceptance of deportees. He argued that most individuals fleeing to the U.S. do so for better livelihood opportunities, not as criminals.
Indian officials highlight the increasing urgency of addressing the concerns surrounding undocumented Indian immigrants, who the Pew Research Center estimates to be over 700,000 residing in the United States. As deportations continue, advocates and political leaders face tough decisions balancing national policies with humanitarian considerations.
While the relationship between the Trump administration and Indian Prime Minister Modi remains robust, this development has opened discussions on the implications for both countries’ immigration policies as well as the futures of those affected by such stringent measures.
Indian officials highlight the increasing urgency of addressing the concerns surrounding undocumented Indian immigrants, who the Pew Research Center estimates to be over 700,000 residing in the United States. As deportations continue, advocates and political leaders face tough decisions balancing national policies with humanitarian considerations.
While the relationship between the Trump administration and Indian Prime Minister Modi remains robust, this development has opened discussions on the implications for both countries’ immigration policies as well as the futures of those affected by such stringent measures.
