United States' Aggressive :Illegal Indian Immigrants

The recent developments regarding the deportation of illegal Indian immigrants from the United States highlight two critical aspects. First, the U.S. administration is acting under domestic political pressure, aiming to reassure its citizens that the promises made during elections are being fulfilled. The swift executive actions taken upon assuming office underscore this intent, although some of these measures have encountered legal hurdles. Second, the aggressive stance against illegal immigrants signals a broader trend of rising anti-immigration sentiments not only in the U.S. but also across Europe and other regions. While these actions target undocumented individuals, they may inadvertently impact legally residing immigrants as well. Such instances often contribute to a negative perception of immigration, coinciding with the global wave of protectionism, where nations prioritize their resources for their citizens.

Indians seeking better opportunities often attempt unauthorized entry into countries such as the U.S., Canada, Europe, and the Middle East. Reports from 2023 indicate that over 1,000 Indians risked their lives attempting to enter the UK illegally via small boats. The number of asylum-seekers from India in the UK exceeded 5,000 in the same year, reflecting the desperation and determination of many Indians to pursue a better life abroad.

The deportation of illegal Indian immigrants from the U.S. aligns with the American administration’s electoral commitments. It is estimated that around 18,000 Indians who entered the country illegally may be repatriated. While unofficial estimates suggest that approximately 725,000 Indians reside illegally in the U.S., these figures remain unverified. India has maintained a clear stance on this issue: if individuals have entered the U.S. illegally and are deported, India will accept them without resistance. This position is reinforced by India's broader concerns about illegal immigration, which is often linked to organized crime. In 2023, discussions in the Indian Parliament highlighted the issue, revealing that as of October 30, 2023, nearly 2,925 agents involved in illegal immigration were identified.

Although illegal immigration is universally condemned, the exploitation of undocumented migrants remains a significant concern. Many individuals seeking work abroad fall prey to human trafficking, forced labor, and even organized crime. A recent report revealed how some Indians, lured by job opportunities, ended up being forced into the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The absence of a robust framework to curb such illegal movements exacerbates the problem. Despite government efforts to caution citizens against unscrupulous agents, illegal routes such as "kabootarbazi" and "donkey flights" remain prevalent.

This situation also raises an important question for India: Why are so many Indians willing to take extreme risks to migrate? The pressures created by these deportations may also prompt the Indian government to take stricter actions against illegal immigrants residing within its own borders. Political parties are unlikely to oppose measures against illegal immigration, given the demographic and economic pressures it imposes. The example of Assam, where demographic shifts due to illegal immigration played a key role in the state's political outcomes, illustrates the sensitivity of this issue.

The current scenario demands introspection. Instead of merely responding to external pressures, India must focus on addressing the root causes that drive its citizens to seek illegal migration routes. Sustainable economic opportunities, better governance, and legal migration pathways could help mitigate this crisis, ensuring that individuals do not have to risk their lives in pursuit of a better future.