New Delhi: A shocking video from Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey has triggered outrage on social media after it showed an Indian student being handcuffed and pinned to the floor by multiple US officials before being deported. The viral footage shows at least four officers restraining the young man, with two placing their knees on his back and others tying his hands and legs, raising serious concerns over the treatment of Indian nationals abroad.
The incident, filmed by Indian-American entrepreneur Kunal Jain, quickly drew public attention. Jain described the moment as heartbreaking, saying, “I witnessed a young Indian student being deported from Newark Airport last night – handcuffed, crying, treated like a criminal. He came chasing dreams, not causing harm. As an NRI, I felt helpless and heartbroken. This is a human tragedy.”
Following mounting pressure, the Indian Consulate in New York acknowledged the incident. “We have seen social media posts regarding an Indian national facing difficulties at Newark Airport. We are in touch with local authorities. The Consulate remains committed to the welfare of Indian nationals,” the official statement read.
Eyewitness Account
Speaking to NDTV, Jain recounted the troubling sequence of events. “The student appeared disoriented and possibly scared. I’ve never seen such treatment even for terrorists,” he said. According to him, despite a crowd of about 50 people witnessing the incident, no one intervened, fearing repercussions.
“The officials said they couldn’t understand him because he was speaking in Haryanvi. I offered to translate or help, but I was denied. Instead, more officers were called in,” Jain explained. The student reportedly became more agitated after being told he couldn’t board the plane, leading to a more aggressive restraint by the officers.
Jain added that the student kept pleading in Hindi, saying, “Main pagal nahi hoon, yeh mujhe pagal sabit kar rahe hain” (I am not mad, they are trying to prove I’m mad). “He was likely under extreme stress, not violent by intent. Language barriers and lack of empathy made things worse,” Jain said.
Concerns Over Dignity and Protocol
While reasons for the visa denial remain unclear, the harsh treatment has prompted comparisons to past incidents involving the deportation of Indian nationals. In February, over 100 Indians deported from the US were seen in shackles, triggering public backlash and demands for more dignified repatriation methods.
Critics argue that immigration enforcement must not come at the cost of human dignity. “Even if deportation is necessary, basic respect must be maintained. These are not criminals,” said a former Indian diplomat.
The incident has reignited the debate over the treatment of foreign nationals at US entry points, especially students who often face cultural and linguistic challenges.
Calls for Accountability and Support
Social media users and diaspora groups have called on both US authorities and the Indian government to ensure better communication, cultural sensitivity, and mental health assessment during immigration procedures.
The Indian Embassy’s assurance of looking into the matter has brought some hope, but many are demanding more concrete action and accountability.
“This is not just about one student. It’s about how we treat those who come in pursuit of education and a better future,” Jain posted later on X.
As the investigation unfolds, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability faced by international students and the urgent need for systems that treat them with empathy, dignity, and respect.
