"They Treated Us Like Criminals": Deported Indian Youth

Recently 104 Indian national are deported from USA by US military aircraft which landed at Amritsar Air force base on February 5. This deportation reveals lot of heatbreaking stories of young migrants whose American dreams are shattered and they returnei in chains with massive debts and traumatic experiences. 

Hard Journey Through the "Donkey Route"

Robin Handa, a 26-year-old computer engineer from Kurukshetra, spent seven months navigating treacherous routes through jungles and waters, paying Rs 43 lakh to agents who promised an easy passage. "The local agent assured me I would reach America in a month," says Robin, who now warns others against taking these dangerous paths. During his journey, Robin faced torture, theft of belongings, and exploitation by both criminal groups and local authorities.

Massive Financial Losses and Family Impact

The financial loss extends beyond individual deportees to entire families. Aakash, a 20-year-old from Kalron village, was sent abroad by his family by selling 2.5 acres of farmland and spend Rs 72 lakh on his failed attempt. His brother Shubham revealed that Aakash's journey included dangerous passages through Panama's jungles and multiple container truck rides. Similarly, Khushpreet Singh's family mortgaged their house, agricultural fields, and cattle to raise Rs 45 lakh for his journey.

Treatment During Deportation

The deportees describe their treatment during the 40-hour military flight as degrading. They were kept in handcuffs and chains throughout the journey, with restricted bathroom access and minimal food consisting of chocolates, fruits, chips, and sandwiches. Many weren't even informed of their deportation until they were already in custody, believing they were being transferred to another camp. 

Legal and Political Implications 

The families of the deportees demand government intervention in order to get their money back from the agents and take action against them. Haryana cabinet Minister Anil Vij defende the action of US President Donald Trump and stated that India should take similar actions to counter illegal immigration in the country. These deportees will never be able to travel to 20 countries that follow US visa policies as their biometrics are recorded by US government.

Future Impact 

The deportees will have a lifetime scar from this deportation on mental as well as financial dimension. Families invested their life savings or took loans to send their children to US will now struggle with financial recovery and helping their children cope with the trauma of deportation. Local communities are calling for stronger government action against immigration agents who exploit vulnerable families with false promises.