The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has addressed the recent incident involving an Indian national who was handcuffed at Newark Airport in the United States. Sources within the MEA have indicated that the individual's behavior was "not conducive for travel" and that he had entered the U.S. illegally. This statement comes amidst growing concerns and outrage following a viral video depicting the young man being restrained by authorities.
The incident, which took place at Newark Liberty International Airport, involved the Indian student being pinned to the ground and handcuffed by U.S. law enforcement officers. The video, captured by Indian-American entrepreneur Kunal Jain, shows the student visibly distressed and shouting in Hindi, "I am not crazy, and they are trying to make me mad." Jain, who was present at the airport, shared the footage on social media, expressing his shock and sadness at the scene. He stated that the student was supposed to be on the same flight to India as him but never boarded.
The video quickly gained traction, sparking widespread condemnation and raising questions about the treatment of Indian nationals in the U.S. Many criticized the heavy-handed approach of the authorities, with some describing it as a "human tragedy." The Indian Consulate in New York responded to the uproar by stating they were in touch with local authorities and were committed to the welfare of Indian nationals.
In response to the incident, the U.S. Embassy in India issued a statement emphasizing that while the United States continues to welcome legitimate travelers, it "will not tolerate illegal entry, abuse of visas, or the violation of U.S. law." This statement has been interpreted as a firm stance against illegal immigration and a warning against any misuse of the U.S. visa system.
Meanwhile, the MEA has taken up the matter with the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi, seeking further details about the incident and the circumstances surrounding the student's detention. While confirming that the individual had entered the U.S. illegally, the MEA is also keen to ensure that the treatment meted out to the student was in accordance with established protocols and human rights standards. Sources indicate that the Indian Embassy in Washington D.C. and the Indian Consulate in New York are also actively involved in gathering information and liaising with U.S. authorities.
The incident has also drawn political reactions in India. The Congress party has criticized the Modi government for allegedly failing to protect the interests and honor of Indian citizens in the U.S., urging the Prime Minister to intervene and address the issue with President Trump.
As of now, details regarding the student's identity, the specific reasons for his detention, and his current whereabouts remain unclear. The Indian Consulate has stated that the student will be deported to India once he is fit to travel and that he is from Haryana and entered the US illegally. The MEA has stated that they have not received complete information from Washington, D.C. regarding the incident. They are continuing to follow up with U.S. authorities to ascertain all the facts and ensure the well-being of the Indian national.
This incident occurs amidst a backdrop of increasing scrutiny and stricter enforcement of immigration laws in the United States. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has revealed that a significant number of Indian citizens have been served final removal orders in recent years.
