Indian Deportees Shackled on US Military Flight Sparks Diplomatic Tensions

Over 100 Indian nationals deported from the US under President Trump's immigration crackdown face criticism for inhumane treatment, fueling political and public outrage in India.

The US deported 104 Indian nationals, including women and children, using a military aircraft, marking the farthest deportation flight to date.
Deportees were restrained with handcuffs, leg irons, and belly chains during the 40-hour journey, drawing accusations of inhumane treatment from families, opposition leaders, and diplomats.
Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that the US's deportation practices, including the use of restraints, have been in place since 2012, but promised to engage with the US to prevent mistreatment.
Opposition leaders in India criticized the Modi government for failing to ensure a dignified return of deportees, with some comparing India's response unfavorably to smaller nations like Colombia and Brazil.
The timing of the deportation has added pressure on India-US relations, as Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to visit the US for talks with President Trump next week.