Last Updated on February 7, 2025
The plane landed in Amritsar, but for the 104 Indians on board, it was like hitting rock bottom. Some silently wiped away tears, others stood paralyzed, unable to comprehend how their American dream had collapsed overnight.
How did it come to this?
Each of them had a different story. Some had stayed in the country longer than their visas allowed, thinking they could integrate. Others had been tricked by agents who sold them dreams and left them to their own devices. There were also those who took the dangerous “donkey route”: smugglers who guided them through Mexico to the United States, a risky gamble on their lives.
But the result? Same. Taken. Detained. Deported. Among them were nineteen women and thirteen children. Families torn apart. Destinies rewritten.
And how were they sent back? Chained. Chained. Transported on a military aircraft.
A military aircraft. Imagine.
Was it really necessary?
These were not hardened criminals. These were not threats. These were the ordinary, desperate people who took a chance and went to make a better future. Yet they were doomed for the entirety of the flight, as though they were dangerous fugitives.
For what?
The US says it is ‘standard procedure.’ Security measures, they say. But does that justify it?
It has been going on since 2012, this is also admitted by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Should India accept it despite that?
In Parliament, the opposition erupted in anger, meanwhile. They asked the questions fast and thick. The accusations followed. The government has been severely criticized for failing to stand up for its citizens. (And we all know that when politicians start yelling, something is very wrong.)
The American Dream or a dangerous mirage?
For many decades, America stood for the opportunity where hard work leads to success. But is this still true?
The laws on immigration are stricter than ever. If you enter illegally, you’re always looking over your shoulder. If you get caught, it’s over.
And let’s not kid ourselves. Even if you make it through, every day is a battle as an undocumented immigrant. Long hours. Low pay. No stability. The knock on the door is still one that I’m afraid of.
And then? A bad day. A routine check. A call to ICE.
That’s it.
Biden talked about a humane immigration policy, but deportations haven’t slowed. If you’re undocumented, the system is designed to deport you. No exceptions.
Why are Indians still taking this risk?
Because for many, it’s not just about money. It’s about escape.
No job. Crushing debt. Family pressure. The overwhelming need to prove one’s worth.
One deportee reportedly said: “I sold everything to get to America.” Now I have nothing left. Not even hope. »
What can India do?
The Indian government is in a delicate situation. It needs strong ties with the United States on trade, defense, and diplomacy. But it also has a responsibility to its citizens.
Jaishankar promised to take up the matter with American officials. But let’s face it: Will this change anything? Probably not. The United States is not softening its position and India has no power to demand better treatment.
The hard truth: There are no shortcuts
Are you considering moving abroad? Stop and ask yourself: Is it worth the risk?(H2)
The United States? Tougher than ever. Europe? Same. Australia? Worse still.
If you want to move, do it the right way. Student visas. Work permits. Skilled migration programs. It’s slower. Harder. But at least it won’t leave you stranded on the flight home.
Because for many, the American dream was not lost.
It never existed.
Bhaskarjyoti Paul is a seasoned content writer with over three years of experience within the ed-tech space. Specialising in study abroad and academic content, Bhaskarjyoti excels at creating SEO-optimized articles that drive traffic and engagement and blog and website content that engages and informs readers. Bhaskarjyoti handles social media content for Admissify, designs compelling narratives and spearheads engagement across multiple platforms. With a desire to help students and a keen eye for detail, Bhaskarjyoti brings a wealth of knowledge to every project.
