New Delhi:
In a development that has sparked widespread outrage, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday to address the contentious issue of the deportation of 104 Indians from the United States. This incident, described as “inhuman” and “deeply distressing,” has created a stir in the Indian Parliament, particularly given its timing just days before PM Modi’s scheduled visit to Washington for crucial talks with US President Donald Trump.
The deportation involves a significant number of women and minors, highlighting the humanitarian implications of the US action. The incident has led to an adjournment of the Indian Parliament, with the opposition demanding an immediate discussion on the matter.
The 104 Indians, who were deported as part of the US crackdown on illegal immigrants, arrived in Amritsar on a US military aircraft. The group includes 33 individuals each from Haryana and Gujarat, 30 from Punjab, three each from Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, and two from Chandigarh. Notably, the deportees include 19 women and 13 minors, among whom are a four-year-old boy and two girls aged five and seven.
Upon their arrival, the deportees were questioned by various government agencies, including the Punjab Police and central intelligence agencies, to verify any potential criminal records. Those residing in Amritsar were transported to their homes in police vehicles, while those from Gujarat were taken to Ahmedabad airport.
The US action has come at a sensitive time, just ahead of PM Modi’s two-day visit to Washington starting February 12, where he is set to engage in comprehensive discussions with President Trump on trade, defense cooperation, and regional security.
The Indian Parliament was adjourned shortly after convening due to intense opposition demands for a discussion on the deportation issue. The opposition has vehemently criticized the deportation, describing it as “deeply distressing and humiliating.” This incident has added a layer of complexity to the already significant diplomatic engagement between India and the US, underscoring the need for a nuanced approach to bilateral relations.
