Sat Feb 15 16:38:09 UTC 2025: ## Second Plane Carrying Deported Indians Lands in Amritsar Amid Political Row

**Amritsar, India –** A second US military aircraft carrying 119 deported Indian nationals landed in Amritsar, Punjab, late on February 15th, sparking renewed controversy over the handling of the deportations. The plane, following a similar flight on February 5th carrying 104 individuals, brought back individuals from various Indian states, with a majority hailing from Punjab and Haryana. A third plane is expected to arrive on February 16th. These deportations are expected to continue bi-weekly.

The manner of the deportations, including reports of deportees being handcuffed and shackled during transit, has drawn sharp criticism from the Indian opposition, particularly the Congress party. P. Chidambaram, a Congress leader, described the situation as a “test for Indian diplomacy,” questioning the use of restraints and raising concerns about the humane treatment of the deportees.

The Indian government, however, defended the process. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that the deportations are organized by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which uses restraints but does not restrain women and children. He also noted that similar deportations have occurred for the past 15 years, citing data showing over 15,000 deportations since 2009.

The choice of Amritsar as the landing site has ignited a political firestorm. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann accused the BJP-led central government of a deliberate attempt to defame Punjab, calling it a conspiracy. He questioned the selection of Amritsar, suggesting it was intended to tarnish the state’s image.

The BJP vehemently rejected Mann’s accusations, with spokesperson RP Singh stating that Amritsar is the nearest international airport to the US for incoming flights and that Mann was politicizing the issue. BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal further criticized the AAP for prioritizing politics over national security. The controversy highlights the sensitive political implications of the ongoing deportations and the differing narratives surrounding them.

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