MEA confirms over 2,790 deportations from the US and 100 from the UK; verification conducted before repatriation
The Indian government has confirmed that more than 2,790 Indians living illegally in the United States and about 100 from the United Kingdom have been deported back to India since January 2025, according to figures shared by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) , reported indianexpress.com.
During his weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that all deportees were verified for credentials and nationality before being repatriated.
“Since the beginning of this year, over 2,790 Indian nationals who did not meet the criteria and were residing in the US illegally have returned. Their credentials and nationality were verified before repatriation. These figures are updated till October 29,” Jaiswal said.
The MEA also confirmed around 100 deportations from the United Kingdom, adding that both the US and UK authorities had coordinated with Indian missions to facilitate the process. Officials emphasized that deportation procedures are conducted in accordance with international norms and bilateral protocols on migration and repatriation.
The deportations come amid a global tightening of immigration controls, especially in the US and UK, where illegal overstays and visa violations have drawn increased scrutiny
Meanwhile, Jaiswal also addressed questions on India’s diplomatic engagements, including trade developments and regional cooperation. Referring to the recent US-China rare earths agreement, he noted that “some Indian companies have received licenses for importing rare earth magnets from China,” and emphasized the need to assess how the evolving trade dynamics could impact India.
On India-Afghanistan relations, Jaiswal reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting the country’s development, including sustainable water management and hydroelectric projects. “There is a history of cooperation between the two countries, including the Salma Dam — now known as the India-Afghanistan Friendship Dam,” he said, following the recent visit by Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Muttaqi.
