Second US Deportation Flight Lands in Amritsar with 119 Indians

A US military aircraft carrying 119 Indian deportees arrived at Punjab’s Amritsar airport on Saturday night, marking the second such deportation in 10 days amid the Trump administration’s crackdown on illegal immigrants. A third flight with 157 deportees is expected on Sunday. 

The C-17 Globemaster aircraft landed at 11:40 pm, bringing back individuals primarily from Punjab (67), Haryana (33), Gujarat (8), and other states. Their families were present at the airport to receive them. The deportees were reportedly shackled throughout the flight, sparking political controversy in India. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar assured that the government is engaging with the US to prevent mistreatment. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who recently visited the US, reaffirmed India’s commitment to accepting its citizens living illegally abroad but emphasized the need to combat human trafficking. The US Embassy defended its actions, citing national security concerns. 

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann criticized the Centre for making Amritsar a “deport center” and arranged transportation for Punjab residents. Others were sent to Delhi for further travel. Many deportees had migrated seeking better opportunities but were caught at the US border and returned.