Sat Nov 16 16:02:02 UTC 2024: ## Surge in Illegal Immigration from Canada Highlights Deadly Risks for Indians Seeking US Entry

**WASHINGTON, D.C. —** A dramatic increase in illegal crossings from Canada into the United States by individuals of Indian origin is raising alarm bells among authorities. US Border Patrol data reveals over 14,000 arrests of Indian nationals in the fiscal year ending September 30th, a tenfold increase in just two years and representing 60% of all arrests along the US-Canada border.

This surge, according to reports, adds to the already substantial undocumented Indian population in the US, estimated by the Pew Research Center to be over 725,000 in 2022. While the reasons for this increase are complex and require further study, contributing factors are believed to include political repression in India, a rise in Khalistani extremism targeting Indians in Canada, a backlog in the US legal immigration system, and significant economic disparities.

The tragic death of the Patel family in January 2022 starkly illustrates the human cost of these dangerous crossings. Jagdish Patel, his wife Vaishaliben, and their two young children perished from exposure while attempting to cross the border illegally, highlighting the risks involved in relying on human smugglers. Two alleged smugglers, Harshkumar Patel (“Dirty Harry”) and Steve Shand, are currently facing trial in connection with the Patel family’s death and the larger smuggling operation.

The Patel family’s story, originating from a small village in Gujarat, India, where many residents have emigrated seeking better opportunities, underscores the desperation driving this migration. Minneapolis-based immigration attorney Satveer Chaudhary notes that smugglers often prey on vulnerable individuals, charging exorbitant fees.

The upcoming Trump administration’s planned crackdown on illegal immigration, led by newly appointed border czar Tom Homan, further complicates the situation. Experts and community leaders, such as Hemant Shah who organized a prayer service for the Patels, emphasize the urgent need for humane and effective immigration policies to address the underlying causes of this dangerous trend and prevent further tragedies.

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