A video showing an Indian student pinned to the ground and handcuffed at Newark Liberty International Airport just before deportation has sparked widespread outrage and concern. The incident, which occurred recently, has triggered condemnation from Indian diaspora groups, student unions, and political figures, raising questions about potential racial profiling and overreach in U.S. immigration protocols.
The disturbing footage, which went viral on social media, shows at least four officials holding the student down, with two appearing to kneel on his back while his hands and legs are restrained. Kunal Jain, an Indian-American social entrepreneur who witnessed the event, shared the video online, describing the scene as a "human tragedy." He stated that the student was "crying, treated like a criminal" and that he felt "helpless and heartbroken" as an NRI (Non-Resident Indian). Jain also claimed the student had arrived in the U.S. that morning but was unable to adequately explain his reason for visiting to immigration officers, resulting in his deportation the same evening. Jain criticized the harsh treatment, saying it was "worse than how the United States doesn't even reserve for terrorists."
The Indian Embassy in New York has acknowledged the incident, stating they are in contact with local authorities. The Consulate General has also expressed its commitment to the welfare of Indian nationals. Meanwhile, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India has taken up the matter with the U.S. Embassy, seeking details and raising concerns about the student's detention. The MEA has said they have not yet received specific information regarding the circumstances of the incident or the reasons for the student's restraint and deportation.
The U.S. Embassy in India has responded by emphasizing that while the United States welcomes legitimate travelers, there is "no right to visit the United States" and that visa abuse will not be tolerated. This stance underscores the U.S. government's commitment to enforcing immigration laws, even as the incident raises questions about the methods employed.
The incident has drawn criticism from political circles in India. The Congress party has slammed the Modi government for failing to protect the honor of Indians abroad and has urged the Prime Minister to intervene with President Trump, demanding action against the "mistreatment" of Indian citizens in the U.S. Congress leaders shared the video of the student being handcuffed and pinned down, highlighting the severity of the situation.
This event occurs against a backdrop of heightened scrutiny of immigration policies in the U.S. Some reports suggest an increase in such cases, with claims that "every day 3-4 such cases are happening." The incident has also sparked debate about the treatment of Indians in the U.S., with some drawing comparisons to mass deportations under President Trump's administration, where Indians were shackled and forcibly removed.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on ensuring the fair treatment of international students and addressing concerns about potential biases in immigration enforcement.
