Wed Feb 05 04:35:39 UTC 2025: ## US Deportation Flight Carrying 205 Indian Immigrants Expected in Amritsar
**Amritsar, February 5, 2025** – A US Air Force C-17 aircraft carrying approximately 205 Indian immigrants, primarily from Punjab and neighboring states, is expected to land at Shri Guru Ramdas Ji International Airport this afternoon. The plane, which departed from Fort Bliss, Texas, is transporting individuals deported from the United States after a recent crackdown on illegal immigration.
The unexpected delay in arrival, initially anticipated for the morning, has led to preparations by the Punjab government. Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav confirmed that the state will receive the deportees and establish processing counters at the airport.
Punjab NRI Affairs Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal expressed disappointment with the US government’s decision, stating that many of the deportees had contributed to the US economy and should have been granted permanent residency. He cited expired work permits as the reason for their illegal immigrant status. Minister Dhaliwal plans to meet with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar next week to address the situation. He also urged Punjabis to avoid illegal immigration routes, emphasizing the importance of legal pathways and acquiring necessary skills and education before traveling abroad.
The deportations follow a stricter enforcement of immigration laws in the United States since the recent presidential inauguration. Many Punjabis, who reportedly spent significant sums of money to enter the US illegally, now face repatriation.
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