The Consulate General of India in New York has responded to social media posts regarding an Indian national facing difficulties at Newark Liberty International Airport. The consulate stated that they are in contact with local authorities to assess the situation. This announcement came after a video surfaced online showing a young Indian man being handcuffed and allegedly prepared for deportation at the airport.
The video was widely circulated on social media, drawing attention to the plight of the individual. Kunal Jain, an Indian-American social entrepreneur, posted the video on X, showing the man pinned to the ground and handcuffed by Port Authority Police. Jain expressed his distress, stating he witnessed the student being deported and treated like a criminal, despite, in Jain's view, chasing dreams and not causing harm. He also noted the student appeared disoriented and was speaking in Haryanvi, claiming that authorities were trying to portray him as mentally unstable.
Jain tagged the Indian Embassy in the US and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, urging them to investigate the matter with New Jersey authorities. He highlighted that such incidents are becoming increasingly common, with several students facing similar situations daily, often unable to explain their reasons for visiting to immigration officials, resulting in them being sent back, sometimes "tied up like criminals".
The Consulate General of India in New York acknowledged the social media posts and affirmed its commitment to the welfare of Indian nationals. They stated they were in touch with local authorities to gather more information and provide assistance. The identity of the Indian national has not yet been officially released.
The incident has sparked concerns about the treatment of Indian students and visitors at US airports. Some reports suggest an intensified crackdown by the US government on international students, with visas being revoked for various reasons, including participation in pro-Palestine protests or minor traffic violations. This has led to confusion and legal challenges for many students.
The incident at Newark Airport is a reminder of the challenges faced by Indian nationals abroad and the crucial role of the Indian Consulate in providing support and assistance. The consulate's prompt response and engagement with local authorities demonstrate their commitment to protecting the interests and well-being of Indian citizens in the United States. Further details about the incident and the individual involved are awaited as the consulate continues its efforts to address the situation.
