Neglected again

The deportation of illegal Indian migrants from the United States on a military aircraft marks a stark escalation in immigration enforcement under President Donald Trump's administration.

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This move, the first such deportation since Mr. Trump's return to office, highlights a renewed effort to curb illegal migration, using military resources to expedite removals. It also signals a significant shift in how the US government perceives and handles unauthorized Indian immigrants. The fact that India has accepted the arrivals without much fuss suggests the matter was diplomatically resolved behind the scenes. At the heart of this policy is the administration's broader crackdown on illegal migration, particularly from South Asia. While deportation flights have historically been used for illegal migrants from Central and South America, the latest move extends this aggressive approach to Indian nationals, reflecting a shift in priority. The use of military aircraft suggests a heightened sense of urgency, aligning with Mr. Trump's long-standing stance that illegal immigration threatens national security and economic stability. For India, the situation presents a diplomatic challenge. While New Delhi has consistently opposed illegal immigration and affirmed its commitment to taking back verified Indian nationals, the optics of mass deportations can be problematic. It reinforces concerns about irregular migration from India and places pressure on Indian authorities to address the root causes that push people to seek unauthorized entry into the US. Economic hardships, lack of employment opportunities, and the lure of better prospects abroad remain driving factors behind such migration. Beyond the immediate political implications, these deportations also serve as a warning to potential illegal migrants. The US government has intensified border enforcement, making illegal entry increasingly difficult and risky. Deportations at this scale send a clear message that unlawful migration is not only unwelcome but also unsustainable. However, while deterrence may be a short-term goal, the reality is that many will s