Opposition Criticizes Modi Government Over Treatment of Deported Indian Migrants

Indian opposition leaders are vocally criticizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration regarding the treatment of Indian immigrants who were recently deported from the United States. Reports have emerged detailing alleged mistreatment during the deportation process, prompting calls for parliamentary discussions.

A military aircraft from the U.S. carrying 104 Indian migrants returned to Punjab, India, this week. These deportations were part of U.S. immigration policies enacted during the Trump administration. Eyewitness accounts from Indian media suggest that some deportees were subjected to handcuffing and chaining during their flight, with restraints reportedly only removed upon their arrival at Amritsar airport.

In response to these allegations, Gaurav Gogoi, the deputy leader of the opposition in Lok Sabha, requested an adjournment of parliamentary proceedings to address the issue. He highlighted the serious concerns surrounding the treatment of these individuals, emphasizing the importance of human dignity and rights.

On the same day, prominent opposition figures including Rahul Gandhi from Congress and Akhilesh Yadav from the Samajwadi Party held a demonstration outside parliament, demanding accountability from the Modi government. Protesters chanted slogans condemning the treatment of Indian nationals, asserting their unwillingness to accept perceived humiliations directed at the country.

These deportations coincide with Modi's upcoming visit to the United States, where discussions on immigration and related issues are expected to take center stage. Critics argue that the Prime Minister's silence on the matter raises questions about his government's commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of Indian citizens abroad.

India's External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, commented on the deportations in the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of parliament, asserting that the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has a Standard Operating Procedure that permits the use of restraints during deportations. However, he noted that women and children are not subjected to such measures. Jaishankar reassured lawmakers that the Indian government is actively engaging with U.S. authorities to address concerns regarding the treatment of deportees during their transit.