India’s Opposition Slams Government Over Treatment of Deported Migrants

February 16, 2025

By The South Asia Times

New Delhi: The Indian opposition has strongly criticized the government over what it calls “inhumane treatment” of Indian illegal immigrants deported from the United States. According to reports, the first batch saw 119 Indian nationals deported, followed by a second batch of 104 individuals who arrived in Punjab.

Sources indicate that nearly 18,000 Indians are expected to be deported under policies enacted by the Trump administration, despite Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit and his diplomatic engagements with President Donald Trump.

Opposition leaders have accused the government of failing to protect the dignity of its citizens, claiming that the mass deportations represent a diplomatic failure. They argue that the government has been unable to safeguard the interests of Indian nationals abroad, leaving them vulnerable to mistreatment and humiliation.

Reports suggest that many of the deported individuals faced difficult conditions, including prolonged detention before their forced return. Shocking accounts reveal that some deportees were handicapped and chained by their feet, sparking outrage from human rights organizations. Punjab Chief Minister has strongly criticized the treatment of Indian citizens by U.S. authorities, calling it unacceptable and inhumane.

Human rights organizations have also condemned the actions of U.S. authorities, labeling the treatment of immigrants as a violation of basic human rights. Opposition parties have demanded immediate intervention and support for those affected, calling for greater diplomatic efforts to address the crisis.

The government has yet to formally respond to the criticism, but officials have maintained that they are monitoring the situation and working on solutions to assist returning deportees.