New Delhi: The arrival of a second US aircraft carrying Indian citizens deported for illegal immigration has sparked political controversy, with Congress leader P Chidambaram calling it a “test for Indian diplomacy” and Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann accusing the Centre of deliberately targeting Punjab.
Chidambaram Slams MEA Over Handling of Deportations
In a post on X, Chidambaram raised concerns about the treatment of deportees, asking:
All eyes will be on the U.S. aircraft which will land today in Amritsar bringing back illegal immigrants.
— P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) February 15, 2025
Will the deportees be handcuffed and their legs tied with ropes?
It is a test for Indian diplomacy
- “Will the deportees be handcuffed and their legs tied with ropes?”
- “Did External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar discuss the issue of deportations with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio?”
- “Did the government offer to send its own plane to bring back Indians instead of US military aircraft?”
Chidambaram alleged that the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) “crumbled badly” in handling the deportation process and asked whether the government has a plan to bring back the 483 more Indian nationals identified for deportation.
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Alleges Bias Against Punjabis
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann accused the Centre of deliberately landing deportation flights in Amritsar to project Punjabis as illegal migrants. He questioned:
- “Why was Amritsar chosen for landing? Why not Delhi, Hindon, or Ahmedabad?”
- “Is this a conspiracy to defame Punjab?”
- “At the time when PM Modi and Trump were meeting, US authorities were putting shackles on our people. Is this the gift Trump has given?”
Mann also raised security concerns, saying that allowing US military planes to land in Amritsar, which is close to the Pakistan border (40 km from Lahore), reflects poor foreign policy decisions.
Background on US Deportation of Indian Nationals
- On February 5, 2025, a US Air Force plane carrying 104 deported Indian nationals landed in Amritsar.
- Another US aircraft is expected to land today (February 15, 2025) with more deported individuals.
- Reports suggest 483 more Indians have been identified for deportation by US authorities.
Political and Diplomatic Implications
- The Indian government faces pressure to ensure the humane treatment of deportees and clarify its role in negotiations with the US.
- The Punjab government is raising concerns about regional targeting and potential reputational damage to Punjabis.
- The controversy highlights larger immigration issues and India’s diplomatic stance on illegal migration cases.