The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently carried out a series of high-profile deportations of Indian nationals lacking legal grounds to remain in the United States, marking an assertive phase in immigration enforcement. In fiscal year 2024, the US repatriated over 1,100 Indian nationals, reflecting a steady increase in removals as DHS addresses rising encounters with Indian nationals attempting irregular entry into the country.
Assistant Secretary Royce Murray of DHS’s Border and Immigration Policy, who has worked in immigration for 25 years, stated that these actions are necessary for upholding US immigration laws. Murray explained, “We are committed to delivering swift consequences for individuals who enter unlawfully, while simultaneously working with our partners to counter human smuggling and provide accurate information on legal pathways to the US.”
The Scale and Profile of Recent Deportations
The recent deportations reveal that most of the individuals on chartered flights to India had attempted to cross US borders without authorization, while others had overstayed their visas and lost their lawful status. Responding to media queries virtually on Tuesday (Oct 29, 2024), Murray noted that these individuals had been processed through immigration court proceedings and ordered for removal. A notable charter flight landed in Punjab, though DHS confirmed that the deported individuals hailed from various states across India.
All those on board were adults, underscoring DHS’s focus on prioritizing deportations of adults in immigration enforcement. “These chartered flights serve as a clear message that US immigration laws must be upheld,” Murray remarked.
Strengthening US-India Collaboration on Immigration
The recent removal efforts are part of an expanding US-India collaboration on border security and immigration. This partnership aims to curb irregular migration and combat transnational human smuggling rings that prey on vulnerable individuals seeking unlawful entry into the US Murray highlighted that DHS values India as a trusted partner in dismantling networks that facilitate irregular migration through deceitful tactics and human smuggling operations.
Since mid-2024, DHS has increased its use of expedited removal processes and has seen a substantial drop in unlawful border crossings as a result. DHS’s social media campaigns and public messaging efforts aim to educate individuals, especially young people and students, about lawful pathways to the US while warning against the risks and consequences of illegal migration. Murray stressed, “Through our ongoing collaboration, we’re working to ensure that people are aware of the legal means to enter the US and the severe repercussions of choosing irregular routes.”
The Consequences of Unlawful Entry
The deportations highlight the consequences of crossing US borders without authorization. Individuals who enter irregularly are subject to deportation, a minimum five-year re-entry ban, and potential criminal charges for repeat offenses. DHS has also applied stricter rules to asylum seekers, particularly those crossing irregularly at the US-Mexico border.
According to DHS, new regulations on asylum introduced in June 2024 have contributed to a 55% reduction in irregular crossings along the southern border. Additionally, enhanced enforcement at the US-Canada border has halved the number of border encounters there from June to September.
Murray encouraged individuals with any knowledge of human smuggling networks to come forward, underscoring that such information is critical to countering these illicit operations. DHS continues to streamline information-sharing processes with Indian authorities to verify individuals’ identities and ensure safe, lawful repatriations.
Looking Ahead: Building Legal Pathways and Public Awareness
As part of their outreach, DHS is focused on informing people—particularly young, aspiring students—about lawful visa processes and US study or work opportunities. By highlighting these avenues, DHS aims to deter individuals from turning to smugglers who often provide false promises of easy entry.
Murray affirmed that DHS would maintain its efforts to combat human smuggling and irregular migration through strengthened partnerships and public awareness campaigns. “We are dedicated to preserving the integrity of US immigration laws, with continued support from the Government of India in reinforcing these efforts.”