Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has recently criticized the central government’s decision to land deportation flights carrying illegal Indian immigrants at Amritsar airport. He alleges that this move is an attempt to defame Punjab, as many deportees are from other states. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has refuted these claims, leading to a heated political exchange.
Chief Minister Mann’s Allegations
On February 15, 2025, an aircraft carrying 119 deported Indian immigrants from the United States is scheduled to arrive at Amritsar airport. Reports indicate that 67 of the deportees are from Punjab, with the remaining individuals hailing from Haryana, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Goa, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu and Kashmir. Chief Minister Mann has strongly objected to the central government’s decision to direct such flights to Amritsar, suggesting that it unfairly maligns Punjab’s reputation.
In a media interaction in Amritsar, Mann stated, “I have already raised this issue with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Home Ministry, but I haven’t received a satisfactory response. The US Army plane carrying 104 deportees had also landed a few days ago, and now two more are being sent here without any justification.” He further questioned the rationale behind selecting Amritsar as the landing point, implying that it could be a deliberate attempt to project Punjab negatively.
BJP’s Response
The BJP has dismissed Mann’s accusations, asserting that the central government’s actions are based on logistical considerations rather than any intent to defame Punjab. BJP spokespersons have emphasized that the choice of Amritsar as the landing site is due to its suitable infrastructure and strategic location, which facilitate the efficient processing of deportees.
Tarun Chugh, BJP’s national general secretary, criticized Mann’s statements, suggesting that the Chief Minister is attempting to politicize a routine administrative procedure. Chugh stated, “The central government is committed to upholding the nation’s immigration laws and ensuring the safe return of its citizens. The allegations made by the Punjab Chief Minister are baseless and politically motivated.”
Broader Political Reactions
The controversy has also drawn reactions from other political entities. The Congress party has questioned the central government’s decision to land deportation flights in Amritsar, suggesting that it might be an attempt to build a negative narrative against Punjab. Congress leader Pargat Singh pointed out that a significant number of deportees are from states like Gujarat and Haryana, yet the flights are directed to Punjab. He stated, “When Punjab demands international flights, permissions are granted only to Delhi airports to deny Punjab economic benefits. But when it comes to running a defaming narrative, a US deportation flight lands in Punjab—even though most deportees are from Gujarat and Haryana.”
Additionally, concerns have been raised about the treatment of deportees upon arrival. Chief Minister Mann condemned the shackling of deportees by U.S. authorities and criticized the Haryana government for transporting its deportees in police prisoner vans from Amritsar airport. He remarked, “Instead of applying balm on the wounds of Indians deported from America, who are mentally and economically broke, Modi’s Haryana government is taking them in police prisoner vans. It is like rubbing salt in their wounds.”
Underlying Issues
This dispute highlights the complex challenges surrounding illegal immigration and deportation in India. Punjab, along with states like Gujarat and Haryana, has a significant number of residents seeking opportunities abroad, sometimes resorting to illegal means. The central government’s efforts to manage the return of deported individuals involve logistical decisions that can have political ramifications, especially when regional sentiments are sensitive.
The central government maintains that its actions are in line with international protocols and are not intended to target any specific state. However, the perception of bias or unfair treatment can lead to political controversies, as evidenced by the current situation.
The exchange between Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and the BJP underscores the delicate balance required in handling deportation and immigration issues in a diverse country like India. While logistical considerations are paramount, sensitivity to regional perceptions and political implications is essential to maintain harmony and trust among states. As the situation develops, it will be crucial for all parties to engage in constructive dialogue to address the underlying concerns and work towards a cohesive national policy on immigration and deportation.