The Indian government is actively addressing the treatment concerns surrounding Indian deportees, particularly those returning from the United States. The Minister of External Affairs emphasized the importance of accommodating the religious sensitivities and food preferences of these individuals. This issue gained attention following reports of deported Sikhs from Punjab being treated disrespectfully, including the removal of their turbans.
Reports of Mistreatment During Deportation
Jatinder Singh, a deportee among 112 Indians sent back to Amritsar, shared his distressing experience. He alleged that US Army personnel discarded his turban (dastar) into a dustbin after forcing him to remove it. Singh described a harrowing two-week stay in a detention camp, where he faced torture and inadequate meals. He also claimed that he was shackled for approximately 36 hours on the military aircraft transporting him and the other deportees.
In response to concerns raised by Rajya Sabha MP Harbhajan Singh, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh confirmed that the Indian government has officially raised its concerns with the US administration. The US authorities claimed that deportees were not instructed to remove their religious head coverings and that requests for vegetarian meals were the only religious accommodations made during the flights.
Addressing Religious Sensitivities
Despite the reassurances from the US, the situation remains complicated. The Minister reported that some detainees arrived at the US border without turbans. This revelation further highlighted the Indian deportees treatment concerns, prompting discussions in the Indian Parliament about the rights and dignity of those facing deportation.
The US authorities have responded to these allegations by stating that no women or children were restrained on the deportation flights. However, the Indian government continues to emphasize the need for humane treatment of deportees. The Ministry of External Affairs is committed to ensuring that Indian citizens are treated with respect during such operations.
Political Reactions and Future Actions
The issue of deportation has sparked significant political debate in India. Opposition parties have raised concerns regarding the mistreatment of deportees, particularly the use of shackles during their return. The Ministry has formally documented its concerns regarding the treatment of deportees, especially regarding the use of restraints, which has drawn public outcry.
As part of an ongoing crackdown on illegal immigration, the US has already deported nearly 400 Indian immigrants this year. Most of these individuals hail from Punjab and Haryana, which explains why recent military flights landed in Amritsar. Data indicates that during Donald Trump’s first term, 6,135 Indians were deported, with 2,042 in 2019 being the highest annual total.
The Indian deportees treatment concerns remain a pressing issue. The Indian government is working diligently to address these matters with US authorities, ensuring that the dignity and rights of its citizens are upheld. For more information on related topics, visit The Hans Bharat
