Punjab CM Meets Deported Indians: Shackled Dreams and Unanswered Questions

Punjab - In a stark manifestation of the U.S. administration's intensified crackdown on illegal immigration, a U.S. military aircraft transported 104 Indian nationals back to Amritsar on February 5, 2025. This unprecedented move, utilizing a military plane for deportation, has ignited a firestorm of debate and raised pressing questions about the treatment of deportees and the broader implications for international relations.  

The deportees, comprising 79 men and 25 women—including 13 minors as young as four—originated from various Indian states, with significant numbers from Punjab, Haryana, and Gujarat. Upon arrival, many recounted harrowing experiences, alleging they were handcuffed and had their legs shackled throughout the lengthy flight. Jaspal Singh, a 36-year-old from Gurdaspur, lamented, "Our hands were handcuffed, and our legs were chained for the entire journey."  

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann met the deported individuals upon their arrival, expressing concern over their treatment. He assured them that the Punjab government would raise the issue with the central government and provide necessary support for their rehabilitation. Opposition lawmakers in India have also vehemently protested the alleged mistreatment, leading to heated debates in Parliament and temporary adjournments.  

In response, External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar acknowledged the longstanding U.S. regulations permitting the use of restraints during deportation flights but emphasized ongoing diplomatic engagements to ensure the humane treatment of Indian nationals.