US Deports Over 4,600 Indians in Last 17 Months Amid Border Crackdown

The United States has deported more than 4,600 Indian nationals over the past 17 months, highlighting a strict enforcement of immigration laws by American authorities. Speaking at a press briefing, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal disclosed that a total of 3,567 Indians were deported from the US to India during the calendar year 2025, while more than 1,000 additional deportations have already been recorded in 2026. These figures reflect a concerted effort by both nations to address irregular migration through official diplomatic and consular channels.

The spike in deportations is a direct result of tightened border security measures in the US and bilateral agreements between New Delhi and Washington to facilitate the safe return of undocumented migrants. Many of those deported had entered the US illegally through perilous land routes via Mexico or Canada—often referred to locally as "donkey flights"—facilitated by unauthorized travel syndicates. Both the Indian and US governments have actively warned citizens against utilizing these illegal channels, which expose individuals to extreme physical danger and financial exploitation.

The MEA reiterated India’s commitment to promoting safe, orderly, and legal migration pathways, while working closely with US authorities to verify the nationality of detainees and expedite travel documents. This diplomatic cooperation ensures that citizens facing deportation are returned humanely under consular supervision. Moving forward, India plans to intensify its crackdown on illegal travel agencies operating in states like Punjab, Gujarat, and Haryana, which have traditionally seen high volumes of outward irregular migration.