As the U.S. continues its mass deportation of illegal migrants, another batch of Indians is set to land in Amritsar in two days. This second group will include 119 individuals, with 67 from Punjab. Another flight, expected on February 16, will carry more deported Indians who had migrated to America illegally. However, it remains unclear whether they are being deported on an American flight or if India has sent a plane to bring them back.
On February 5, a C-17 plane reached Amritsar with 104 Indians. Most of these people were from Haryana, Gujarat and Punjab.
Will They Be Handcuffed And Chained?
According to an Indian Express report, the individuals in the second batch will not be brought back in handcuffs. Following controversies over the chaining of migrants during deportation, both the U.S. and Indian authorities have exercised caution regarding the practice.
The first batch of deported Indians was handcuffed, sparking severe criticism and political backlash. The issue even led to an uproar in Parliament, prompting the Foreign Minister to assure that the matter would be discussed with the U.S. government.
The second flight is expected to arrive at Amritsar International Airport between 10 and 11 PM on Saturday. According to sources, this flight carries 67 passengers from Punjab, 33 from Haryana, 8 from Gujarat, 3 from Uttar Pradesh, 2 each from Maharashtra and Rajasthan, and 1 each from Goa, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir.
U.S. Deports Indians Who Illegally Migrated Via the ‘Donkey Route’
Most of the individuals on the first deportation flight had entered the U.S. illegally through the notorious Donkey Route—a perilous journey that takes several months and costs migrants a fortune in payments to brokers. In the wake of their return, the Punjab and Haryana governments have cracked down on human trafficking networks, arresting several brokers involved in these illegal operations.
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the U.S., the issue of illegal immigration was a key topic in his discussions with President Donald Trump. Addressing the matter, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri emphasized, “Both nations are committed to streamlining the legal movement of students and professionals while facilitating short-term tourism and business travel. At the same time, they are equally determined to take strict measures against illegal immigration and human trafficking.”
Also Read: Trump- PM Modi Talks In US: 7 Big Takeaways – From Tahawwur Rana to F-35 Fighter Jets
He further stated, “Both sides are dedicated to decisive action against elements that threaten public safety, diplomatic security, and the sovereignty of our nations. Strengthening law enforcement cooperation is a priority, particularly in light of recent incidents.”
What Is Donkey Route
The Donkey Route—a dangerous and secretive pathway through multiple countries—has become a preferred escape route for gangsters fleeing police crackdowns in India. While this treacherous journey often ends in failure for ordinary migrants, those with criminal connections and vast resources manage to cross international borders undetected.
For many, the risks are immense. Countless lives have been lost along this perilous route, yet brokers continue to exploit desperate individuals, charging exorbitant amounts without any guarantee of safety. Many migrants not only endure life-threatening conditions but also fall victim to fraud, losing their money and, in some cases, their freedom.
The government urges people to avoid such illegal routes and travel abroad only through legal means. No opportunity is worth risking your life—stay safe, and don’t fall prey to unscrupulous agents promising shortcuts to a better future.
