A record 3,258 Indian nationals have been deported from the United States since January 2025, marking the highest number since 2009, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar told Parliament. The spike in deportations reflects stricter US immigration enforcement, with the majority of cases involving illegal entry, visa overstays, and undocumented residence. Deportees were repatriated through both commercial flights and ICE-chartered planes.
In response, the Indian government has raised concerns with US authorities over the treatment of deportees, particularly the use of restraints or shackles on women and children. Meanwhile, central and state law enforcement agencies have launched a large-scale crackdown on illegal travel agents and human trafficking networks that facilitate irregular migration. Authorities emphasized their commitment to curbing this growing illegal migration industry.
The surge in deportations has sparked nationwide attention, highlighting the risks of illegal migration and reinforcing India’s efforts to ensure safe and legal pathways for its citizens abroad.