Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: India has emerged as the third-largest source of illegal immigrants in the United States, following Mexico and El Salvador, according to an analysis by the Pew Research Center for the 2019–2022 period. The issue has gained renewed attention as the US administration under President Donald Trump embarks on the “largest mass deportation operation in history.”
Key Findings of the Pew Report
The report highlights a significant increase in illegal immigrants from countries like India, Brazil, and Colombia during the three-year period. While Mexico tops the list with 40 lakh illegal immigrants, El Salvador follows with 7.5 lakh, and India ranks third with 7.25 lakh.
A separate report by The New York Times revealed that nearly 90,000 Indians were arrested in 2023 while attempting to cross into the US illegally. Additionally, over 1,000 Indians were deported last year.
Trump’s Executive Order and Its Impact
On January 22, Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at addressing illegal immigration, particularly through the southern border. The order suspends the physical entry of individuals identified as part of an “invasion” through the US-Mexico border.
Trump reiterated the financial and social strain caused by illegal immigration, stating, “Illegal immigration costs our country billions each year and undermines public safety.” He vowed to take all lawful actions to resolve the crisis.
The Fate of Indian Illegal Immigrants
Both the Indian and US governments have identified around 18,000 Indian illegal immigrants for deportation. However, this figure may be an underestimate, as the exact number of undocumented Indian nationals remains uncertain.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has affirmed its willingness to repatriate individuals whose Indian nationality can be verified. “If they are Indian nationals overstaying or without proper documentation, we will take them back once their nationality is confirmed,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.
India’s Stance on Illegal Immigration
New Delhi has consistently opposed illegal immigration, citing its links to organized crime. The MEA emphasized its commitment to verifying and repatriating illegal immigrants while discouraging undocumented migration.
