US Begins Deporting Indian Migrants on Military Flights Amid Trump’s Crackdown
February 4, 2025: New Delhi: A US military aircraft has started deporting Indian migrants as part of President Donald Trump’s intensified crackdown on undocumented immigration, Reuters reported. The C-17 aircraft departed for India, marking the farthest destination yet for these deportation flights.
An official speaking on the condition of anonymity stated that the aircraft carrying deportees will take at least 24 hours to reach India. The Pentagon has previously utilized military planes to deport over 5,000 migrants from El Paso, Texas, and San Diego, California, to countries like Guatemala, Peru, and Honduras. However, flights to India underline the expanded scope of Trump’s immigration policy.
Also Read: White House Announces Largest Deportation Operation Under Trump Administration
Trump’s administration recently launched military deportation flights as part of his emergency immigration measures. Speaking to reporters, Trump said, “For the first time in history, we are locating and loading illegal aliens into military aircraft and flying them back to the places from which they came.”
Also Read: Indian Parents Rush for Early Deliveries Ahead of Trump’s Birthright Citizenship Deadline
After a call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Trump indicated that Modi would “do what’s right” regarding the repatriation of illegal Indian immigrants. Reports suggest that both governments have identified about 18,000 Indians living illegally in the US.
Indians are a significant demographic among H-1B visa holders, typically used for skilled workers. However, many migrants have overstayed their visas or entered without proper documentation, leading to their inclusion in the deportation drive.
The costs of using military planes for deportation have drawn criticism. For instance, a flight to Guatemala reportedly cost $4,675 per migrant — over five times the cost of a first-class ticket on a commercial airline. This has raised concerns about the efficiency and economic impact of Trump’s measures.
Trump’s crackdown includes not just deportations but also the deployment of troops to the US-Mexico border and the use of military bases to house migrants. These moves are part of his broader promise to initiate the “largest deportation operation in American history.”
The President’s immigration policies coincide with a series of tariff hikes targeting Canada, Mexico, and China. Trump announced additional 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada, citing the flow of undocumented migrants and drugs as key reasons. Both countries have negotiated brief reprieves by pledging enhanced border measures, including deploying troops and funding anti-smuggling efforts.
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