In a recent session of the Rajya Sabha, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the issue of the deportation of Indian nationals from the United States. Here are the key points he discussed:
Obligation to Repatriate Nationals: Jaishankar emphasized the obligation of countries to repatriate their nationals if found living illegally abroad, in accordance with international obligations.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): He clarified that the SOPs for deportations by aircraft, in place since 2012, include the use of restraints. However, women and children are not restrained, and their needs are attended to during transit.
Engagement with the US: The Indian government is actively engaging with US authorities to ensure deportees are treated humanely during the flight.
Crackdown on Illegal Migration: Jaishankar highlighted the need for a strong crackdown on the illegal migration industry while facilitating legal mobility for legitimate travelers.
Historical Context: He pointed out that the deportation of Indian nationals from the USA has been occurring for several years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why were Indians deported from the USA? A: The deportees were found to be living illegally in the United States. The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is responsible for enforcing immigration laws and deporting individuals who are in the country unlawfully.
Q: How were the deportees treated during their journey? A: Reports suggest that the deportees were shackled and handcuffed during the flight. However, the Indian government has stated that women and children were not restrained, and their needs, including food, medical emergencies, and toilet breaks, were attended to during transit.
Q: What has been the Indian government's response to the treatment of deportees? A: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has assured that the Indian government is in discussions with the US to ensure that deported Indians are treated humanely. He emphasized the importance of cracking down on the illegal migration industry while facilitating legal mobility for legitimate travelers.
Q: What are the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for deportations by aircraft? A: The SOPs for deportations by aircraft, effective since 2012, include the use of restraints. However, women and children are not restrained, and their needs are attended to during transit.
Q: How many Indians have been deported from the USA since 2009? A: According to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, a total of 15,756 Indian nationals have been deported from the USA since 2009.
Conclusion
The deportation of Indian nationals from the USA raises important questions about the treatment of deportees and the responsibilities of both the US and Indian governments. As discussions continue, it remains crucial to ensure that the rights and dignity of all individuals are respected throughout the deportation process.