In light of recent deportations of Indian nationals from the United States, India expressed hope on Saturday that strengthened cooperation with the U.S. on migration and mobility will deter illegal immigration in the future. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted India’s ongoing dialogue with the United States on the subject, emphasising the goal of creating more opportunities for legal migration.
The comment comes days after the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), via Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), deported a group of Indian nationals who had been residing in the country without legal authorisation. “On October 22, the DHS conducted a large-frame charter removal flight to the Republic of India,” DHS stated last week, noting that these individuals did not establish a lawful basis to remain in the US This action, according to DHS, underscores a commitment to partnering with India to address irregular migration and curb human smuggling.
India-US dialogue
During his weekly briefing, Jaiswal remarked, “Recently, we saw deportations from the US We have a regular dialogue with the United States on migration and mobility. The idea is to create more avenues for legal migration.” He added that the ongoing cooperation also includes consular dialogues and arrangements, through which both nations facilitate the return of individuals involved in irregular migration.
The MEA spokesperson underscored India’s focus on expanding safe and legal pathways, while also countering unlawful immigration. “This cooperation and engagement aim to effectively deter illegal immigration,” he noted.
In the last US fiscal year ending September 30, approximately 1,100 Indian nationals residing illegally in the United States were repatriated through both chartered and commercial flights, according to Royce Murray, Assistant Secretary for Border and Immigration Policy, DHS. Murray further clarified in a recent virtual briefing that the October 22 charter flight involved only adult men and women, with no minors on board.
As India and the US strengthen cooperation on these issues, both governments are optimistic about curbing irregular migration while supporting legitimate migration pathways.