US deports over 50 Haryana youths who took the ‘donkey route’

The US has deported over 50 youths from India’s Haryana for allegedly entering the country via the “donkey route” (a dangerous and illegal path used by migrants). As per reports, the deportees arrived at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, Terminal 3, on Flight OAE-4767 on Sunday.

Deputy Superintendent of Police Sandeep of Haryana’s Karnal district said, “Around 50 youths were deported from the USA, including about 16 from Karnal district, from various villages and towns…” 

Fifteen  of these youths are from Kaithal, five from Ambala, four from Yamuna Nagar, four from Kurukshetra, three from Jind, two from Sonipat, and one each from Panchkula, Panipat, Rohtak, and Fatehabad.

Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said, “I am aware of it. During my earlier visits around election time, I had also said that this route is not suitable for young people or families. I know it has faced criticism, but we want the youth to get employment, improve their skills, and receive education. Wherever they need to go abroad, we guide them on how to travel legally, assist them in obtaining passports, and help them secure visas as well...”

Notably, earlier this year, hundreds of individuals were deported to India by US authorities. The US government routinely deports those who violate immigration laws or lack legal grounds to stay in the country. Since Donald Trump took office as President in January, US law enforcement agencies have intensified their crackdown on illegal immigrants.