Priyanka Tiwari
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The Centre informed Parliament that the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had raised strong objections with US authorities over the treatment of Indian deportees on a flight that arrived on February 5. Particular concern was expressed over the reported use of shackles, especially on women.
US Denies Restraining Women and Children on Later Flights
The US government later confirmed that no women or children were restrained on deportation flights that landed in India on February 15 and 16. However, several Indian nationals deported earlier alleged they were transported on a military aircraft with both hands and legs cuffed throughout the journey.
Details on Indian Deportees and MEA's Response in Parliament
In response to questions raised in the Rajya Sabha, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar provided the following details:
- Total Deportations: Between January 2025 and March 13, a total of 388 Indian nationals were deported from the United States.
- Pending Verifications: The government is verifying the nationality of 295 individuals currently held in US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody, who have final removal orders.
- Citizenship Confirmation: Only those confirmed as Indian citizens are being accepted for deportation.
Government Engagement with US on Deportee Treatment
The Indian government confirmed it has initiated discussions with US authorities regarding the use of restraints during deportation transit. MEA has emphasized humane treatment and sought changes in deportation procedures, especially regarding the use of handcuffs and shackles.
