In recent years, the issue of migration has emerged as one of the most contentious challenges for nations across the world. India, a country that has long dealt with migration on both ends—receiving migrants and sending its own citizens abroad—is currently grappling with two significant concerns. The first is the deportation of Indian migrants from the United States, and the second concerns the failure of India to deal with the presence of undocumented Bangladeshis in Assam. These issues raise critical questions not only about India's immigration policies but also its diplomatic approach and its national responsibility toward migration. The deportation of Indian migrants from the United States has become an increasingly pressing issue. The stricter enforcement of immigration laws has led to the forced return of many Indian migrants who, despite living in the US for years, now face an uncertain future. While countries like the United States have the right to enforce their immigration laws, India's role in protecting its citizens abroad becomes increasingly significant.
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External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, in his remarks, expressed India's concern over the deportation of Indian nationals from the US. He emphasised the importance of ensuring that Indian migrants who have settled abroad for years should be given a fair opportunity to stay and contribute to their host societies. Jaishankar’s views highlight a broader concern over the treatment of migrants who, despite their long-term residence in foreign countries, are often treated as illegal or undesirable. The lack of a clear and humane approach to deportation leaves many families fractured and uncertain about their futures. Jaishankar's comments reinforce the need for India to strengthen its diplomatic channels to protect the interests of its citizens abroad and to work toward agreements with host nations to prevent the undue hardship caused by such deportations. On the domestic front, the issue of migration is perhaps most visible in Assam, where the state has become a focal point for discussions surrounding the migration of Bangladeshis. Assam's geographical proximity to Bangladesh, combined with historical and political factors, has led to a significant influx of migrants into the state, many of whom have settled without proper documentation. This illegal migration has caused immense social, economic, and political strain in the region.
The issue remains a livewire even after 40 years of signing of the Assam Accord which had raised hopes of cleansing Assam of illegal foreigners, particularly of the Bangladeshi strain. The contentious National Register of Citizens (NRC) exercise, which sought to identify and segregate legal residents from illegal migrants, has only deepened divisions, with many genuine Indian citizens being left off the list while Bangladeshis continue to remain in the state illegally. Recently, even the Supreme Court had to step in and ask the Centre and Assam government to initiate action to deport foreigners being held in various centres. Yet, deportation appears to be easier said than done as, by the government’s own admission, the addresses of these Bangladeshis in their country are not available. Jaishankar’s views on this matter, although not directly related to the Assam situation, touch upon the broader themes of managing migration effectively and diplomatically. This approach could be crucial in finding a solution to the issue of Bangladeshi migrants in Assam, as it would require cooperation between India and Bangladesh to curb illegal migration and ensure that both countries share the responsibility for their citizens.
