This week, more than 100 Indians were sent back from the United States as part of a strict measure against illegal immigration implemented by the Trump administration. The deported individuals reported that they were kept in cuffs on their hands and legs during the entire journey, only being released after arriving in Amritsar. Videos circulating on social media seem to support these claims, leading to significant public outrage.
Michael W. Banks, the chief of the US Border Patrol, shared footage of the deportation process, which showed the deported individuals being led to a military aircraft while restrained. Many of those affected described their experience as “worse than hell,” stating that they were shackled for an exhausting 40 hours.
In a statement on social media platform X, Banks emphasized their commitment to upholding immigration laws, stating, “USBP and partners successfully returned illegal aliens to India, marking the farthest deportation flight yet using military transport. If you cross illegally, you will be removed.”
A photo that allegedly showed Indians being deported in chains has gained significant attention online, driving further outrage. However, a fact-check from PIB clarified that the image in question actually depicted migrants being sent back to Guatemala.
Despite this clarification, the video shared by Banks does show individuals with chains on their legs as they make their way toward the military plane, and it’s important to note that the viral photo was not part of this footage.
The recent deportations have caused a stir in the Indian Parliament, with opposition lawmakers protesting on Thursday. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reassured that the Indian government is in talks with the US to ensure that the deportees are treated humanely during their return. He also highlighted the necessity to combat the illegal migration industry while facilitating easier visa processes for legitimate travelers.
“We are engaging with the US government to ensure that returning deportees are not mistreated. At the same time, it is essential to crack down on the illegal migration industry,” Jaishankar stated during a session in the Rajya Sabha.
