US Border Patrol Releases Footage of Shackled Deportees, Calls Them “Illegal Aliens”
The US military deports 104 Indian nationals. A US military plane landed in Amritsar, Punjab, on Tuesday. This represented the farthest deportation flight the United States has undertaken using military transport. The deportees, who were reportedly in chains and handcuffs throughout the flight, were removed for illegal entry into the US.
The development has sparked sharp reactions in India. US Border Patrol (USBP) Chief Michael Banks shared a video on X (formerly Twitter). The video shows the deported Indians shackled at the wrists and ankles. Banks wrote:
“USBP and partners successfully returned illegal aliens to India, marking the farthest deportation flight yet using military transport. This mission underscores our commitment to enforcing immigration laws and ensuring swift removals.”
The images have raised concerns about the treatment of deportees. Several political leaders in India condemn the inhumane conditions. Indian nationals were sent back under these conditions.
Breakdown of Deported Indians
According to the flight manifest, the 104 deported Indians hailed from the following states:
• Punjab – 31
• Haryana – 30
• Gujarat – 27
• Uttar Pradesh – 3
• Maharashtra – 4
• Chandigarh – 2
The cost of the deportation flight was reportedly borne by the US military.
In a statement following the deportation, the US Embassy in India reiterated Washington’s tough stance on illegal immigration, stating:
“If you cross illegally, you will be removed. Enforcing our nation’s immigration laws is critically important to the national security and public safety of the US. It is the policy of the US to faithfully execute immigration laws against all inadmissible and removable aliens.”
The Indian government has yet to make an official statement. Yet, sources show that the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is closely monitoring the situation.
Outrage Over Treatment of Deportees
The release of visuals showing deported Indians in handcuffs and leg chains has sparked widespread criticism. Immigration experts and human rights activists have called the practice degrading and unnecessary.
A former Indian diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity,
“The US has the right to enforce its immigration laws. Yet, the treatment of Indian deportees raises serious human rights concerns. These are not criminals; they are economic migrants who took risks for a better future.”
Political parties in Punjab and Haryana have raised concerns. A significant number of deportees were from these states.
The US has intensified crackdowns on illegal immigration, particularly along its southern border. In recent months, many Indians tried to enter the country through Mexico. They were apprehended as they hoped for asylum or work opportunities.
What Next?
The mass deportation of Indians has reignited debates on immigration policies, both in India and the US. Washington is toughening its stance. New Delhi plans to engage diplomatically. This ensures the humane treatment of its nationals facing deportation.
