Amritsar becomes deportation hub: CM Mann accuses centre of defaming Punjab

In a significant development, a U.S. military aircraft carrying 119 deported Indian nationals landed at Amritsar‘s Sri Guru Ramdas Ji International Airport on Saturday night. This event marks the second such deportation operation within a fortnight, intensifying debates over the central government’s approach to handling these returns. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has expressed strong objections, suggesting that the choice of Amritsar as the landing point is a deliberate attempt to defame Punjab.

What Are the Details of the Recent Deportation Flight?

The aircraft, initially scheduled to arrive at 10 PM, touched down around 11:30 PM. The deportees, predominantly young individuals aged between 18 and 30, originate from various Indian states: 67 from Punjab, 33 from Haryana, eight from Gujarat, three from Uttar Pradesh, two each from Goa, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan, and one each from Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir. Upon arrival, they underwent standard procedures, including immigration formalities, verification, and background checks, before being allowed to proceed to their respective homes.

This operation follows a similar deportation on February 5, when a U.S. military aircraft repatriated 104 illegal Indian immigrants to Amritsar.

Why Is Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann Opposing These Landings?

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has vocally criticized the central government’s decision to designate Amritsar as the landing point for these deportation flights. He perceives this move as a deliberate attempt to tarnish Punjab’s reputation, transforming the holy city into a “deportation center.” Mann emphasized Amritsar’s significance, noting its association with revered sites such as the Golden Temple, Durgiana Mandir, Ram Tirath temple, Jallianwala Bagh, and Gobindgarh Fort. He questioned the rationale behind selecting Amritsar for these flights, suggesting that other airbases across the country could have been utilized.

What Are the National Security Concerns?

The Chief Minister also raised concerns about national security, highlighting the implications of allowing foreign military aircraft to land in a border state. He drew a parallel, rhetorically asking whether a similar operation would be permitted in a place like Vatican City if the deportees hailed from there. Mann’s remarks underscore his apprehension about the potential risks associated with such decisions.

How Is the Punjab Government Assisting the Deportees?

In response to the arrival of the deportees, the Punjab government has made comprehensive arrangements to facilitate their return to their hometowns. For those from Punjab, transportation by road has been organized, while deportees from other states are scheduled to fly to Delhi on Sunday morning before proceeding to their respective destinations. Additionally, provisions for meals and temporary accommodation have been ensured to support the deportees during their transit.

What Are the Broader Implications of These Deportations?

This recent deportation follows a similar operation on February 5, when a U.S. military aircraft repatriated 104 illegal Indian immigrants to Amritsar. The recurrence of such events has sparked a broader discourse on illegal immigration, the treatment of deportees, and the diplomatic dynamics between India and the United States. As the situation unfolds, it brings to the forefront the challenges and complexities associated with migration policies and international relations.

What Are Experts Saying About This Situation?

Immigration policy experts suggest that the central government’s decision to use Amritsar as the landing point may be based on logistical considerations, such as proximity and airport capacity. However, they also acknowledge the political sensitivities involved, especially given Punjab’s history and cultural significance. The use of military aircraft for deportation purposes raises questions about international protocols and the message it sends regarding bilateral relations. Experts recommend a more transparent approach from the central government to address the concerns raised by state leadership and the public.

The arrival of the second U.S. deportation flight in Amritsar has ignited a complex debate encompassing issues of national security, state reputation, and international diplomacy. As more deportation flights are anticipated, it remains imperative for both state and central governments to engage in constructive dialogue, ensuring that the concerns of all stakeholders are addressed while upholding the nation’s immigration policies and international commitments.