The United States has deported a group of Indian nationals who were residing in the country illegally, utilizing a chartered flight for their return. This operation, conducted on October 22, was announced by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which noted that it was carried out in cooperation with the Indian government.
Kristie A. Canegallo, a senior DHS official, emphasized that individuals without a legal basis to remain in the U.S. are subject to swift removal and cautioned potential migrants against believing the false promises made by smugglers. The DHS reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing U.S. immigration laws and imposing strict consequences on those who enter unlawfully while promoting lawful pathways for migration.
Since the implementation of new immigration policies in June 2024, illegal crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border have reportedly decreased by 55%. In fiscal year 2024 alone, DHS has removed or returned over 160,000 individuals and operated more than 495 international repatriation flights to over 145 countries, including India. This deportation initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at reducing irregular migration and holding accountable those involved in human smuggling.