In the wake of the United States’ intensified crackdown under President Donald Trump’s administration, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) recently reiterated its opposition to illegal immigration.
“India is committed to facilitating the return of Indian nationals who are residing illegally in the U.S. or overstaying their visas,” MEA spokeswoman Randhir Jaiswal said during a news briefing. In addition to stressing that this regulation is applicable worldwide and is not just in the United States, he also highlighted India’s wider resistance to illegal immigration because of its connections to organized crime.
India would help repatriate undocumented Indians, Jaiswal explained, as long as the right paperwork is submitted to confirm their nationality. He said, “We will take them back provided documents are shared with us so that we can verify their nationality” . This announcement coincides with the U.S. government’s start of mass deportations, which are expected to impact about 18,000 Indians, according to reports.
S. Jaishankar, India’s External Affairs Minister, also underlined the government’s strong opposition to illicit mobility while highlighting its support for lawful migration. He pointed out that illegal immigration frequently results in further illicit activity, which can damage a nation’s image.
Trump has prioritized immigration reform as he begins his second term, hoping to strengthen border security and implement tougher laws on unauthorized immigrants. This dedication is demonstrated by Congress’s recent approval of the Laken Riley Act, which requires unauthorized immigrants accused of specific offenses to be detained pending trial.
India’s MEA has aligned its policies with its commitment to legitimate migration and national integrity by making it clear that it opposes illegal immigration and is willing to help its citizens return from the United States.
