The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed on Friday, October 26, 2024, that a group of Indian nationals unlawfully residing in the U.S. were deported. While the department did not disclose the exact number of individuals on the flight, DHS emphasized that this operation is part of its ongoing collaboration with the Indian government and other international partners. The goal is to reduce irregular migration and counter human smuggling through sustained joint efforts.

The DHS, tasked with enforcing U.S. immigration laws, continues to act against those who enter or remain in the country unlawfully. This includes promptly removing individuals without a legal basis to stay while promoting the use of lawful migration pathways. Since June 2024, following the implementation of the Securing the Border Presidential Proclamation and its Interim Final Rule, the U.S. has seen a 55% decrease in border encounters along the southwest border.

The DHS reported that over 160,000 individuals have been removed or returned since June, with more than 495 repatriation flights to over 145 countries, including India. Kristie A. Canegallo, the Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security, stated that Indian nationals without legal grounds to remain in the U.S. face swift removal. She urged potential migrants not to believe smugglers' false promises, reiterating that DHS will continue to enforce immigration laws.

DHS utilizes charter removal flights among various strategies to curb irregular migration, encourage safe and lawful migration routes, and hold smuggling networks accountable for exploiting vulnerable individuals.

According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection data, over 90,000 Indian nationals entered the U.S. unlawfully in the 2022-23 period.

In parallel efforts, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs conducts regular outreach to promote safe and legal migration practices. Through Indian Missions abroad, the Ministry issues advisories warning against illegal migration and false job offers targeting potential emigrants.

Additionally, the Ministry offers Pre-Departure Orientation and Training (PDOT) programs to prepare migrant workers for life abroad. These programs provide guidance on legal requirements, working conditions, and access to welfare schemes, aiming to promote informed, safe migration and awareness of workers' rights.