US Deports Illegal Indian Immigrants to Panama; MEA Says Verification Underway

India confirmed on Friday that it is aware of deportation flights to Panama and Costa Rica, which are part of an arrangement between the US and those governments. During a weekly press briefing, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the Indian government is verifying whether the individuals being deported are Indian nationals. They assured that assistance will be provided to those identified as Indians.

"We are checking if those involved are Indian citizens. Once the verification is complete, we will make the necessary arrangements for them," Jaiswal said. Under the agreement, both Costa Rica and Panama will act as transit countries for deportees, with the US covering all operational expenses. The Indian mission in Panama, which is also responsible for Costa Rica, is coordinating with local authorities to gather more information.

"We have seen reports about deportation flights to Panama and Costa Rica. It appears these flights are part of an agreement between the US and the respective governments. Costa Rica and Panama are helping as transit countries for the deportees, with the US handling all costs," Jaiswal explained.

The Ministry of External Affairs is working closely with local authorities to ensure the safe and dignified return of Indian citizens. Earlier, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh expressed concern about reports of Indians being deported to Panama, criticizing the US's approach as "inhuman and demeaning."

"We had hoped that Indian citizens deported by the Trump Administration would return to India with dignity. Instead, these deportations have been handled in a very inhumane manner. We are now hearing about more Indians being sent to Panama. What is happening?" Ramesh posted on social media.

Meanwhile, the Indian embassy in Panama, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica announced on Thursday that a group of Indians had arrived safely in Panama from the US. "They are safe and staying at a hotel with all necessary facilities. The embassy team has obtained consular access and is working closely with the host government to ensure their wellbeing," the Indian embassy in Panama shared on social media.