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On Wednesday, nearly 50 Indian deportees from the United States flew to Panama, where they are being lodged temporarily until their flight back to India on a US plane. As per the diplomatic sources, this activity is part of the US government’s repatriation of persons residing on US soil illegally.
The deportees are safe and housed in a hotel, where they have been provided with the basics for their comfort and welfare. The Indian embassy in Panama is actively involved in their welfare and has attained consular access to aid them.
Indian Embassy Ensures Safety of Deportees
The Indian Embassy in Panama confirmed the situation through a post on X (formerly Twitter).
“Panamanian authorities have informed us that a group of Indians have reached Panama from the US. They are safe and secure at a hotel with all essential facilities. The embassy team has obtained consular access. We are working closely with the host govt to ensure their well-being,” the post read.
Some Deportees Refuse to Return Home
While many deportees from various countries, including India and Central Asian nations, have been relocated to transit countries like Panama and Costa Rica, several individuals refuse to return to their home countries. They claim that they would not be safe if they were sent back.
The Indian government has assured that it will verify the nationality and citizenship of all deportees before accepting them back into the country. Officials have stated that the process of verification is necessary to ensure that all returning individuals are indeed Indian citizens.
US Continues Crackdown on Illegal Immigration
Since the inauguration of President Donald Trump on January 20, the United States has already deported around 350 illegal Indian migrants back to India. This is part of the US administration’s strict immigration policies, which aim to reduce illegal immigration and deport individuals who have entered or stayed in the country without proper documentation.
Costa Rica Joins Efforts to Repatriate Migrants
An official announcement made by the Costa Rican government about a week back confirmed that Costa Rica would cooperate with the U.S. in serving as a transit point for the repatriation of illegal immigrants from India and Central Asia.
According to an official statement from the office of Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves Robles, the first group of 200 migrants is expected to arrive at Juan Santamaria International Airport on a commercial flight Wednesday.
“The Government of Costa Rica agreed to collaborate with the United States in the repatriation of 200 illegal immigrants to their country. These are people originating from countries in Central Asia,” it was noted.
What Comes Next for the Indian Deportees?
The Indian deportees currently in Panama are expected to be flown back to India soon, once the verification process is complete. The Indian government and diplomatic authorities will continue working with Panamanian officials to ensure the safety and smooth return of the individuals involved.
As immigration policies tighten in the United States, more individuals who have entered illegally may face deportation, with transit countries like Panama and Costa Rica playing a role in temporary relocation efforts before their final repatriation.
