The Centre announced on Friday that U.S. authorities have identified an additional 487 illegal Indian migrants, who are now scheduled for deportation.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, speaking at a press conference, stated that the U.S. has informed New Delhi about "487 presumed Indian nationals" who have received removal orders.
"We've been told there are 487 presumed Indian citizens with final removal orders," Misri explained.
He also indicated that the number could increase as more information becomes available, although no additional details have been provided by U.S. authorities regarding other individuals.
The Indian government has confirmed the identities of the 487 migrants currently on the deportation list.
Earlier, a U.S. military aircraft carrying 104 deported migrants arrived in Amritsar on January 5, marking the first major deportation under President Donald Trump's administration as part of his crackdown on illegal immigration.
The deportees, who had attempted to enter the U.S. illegally, reported that their hands and legs were shackled throughout the flight and were only unbound after arriving in Amritsar.
Regarding concerns over the "inhumane treatment" of Indian deportees, Misri acknowledged that it was a "valid concern" and confirmed that the Indian government would address the issue with U.S. authorities.
"The description by the EAM of the standard operating procedure relating to the use of restraints has been communicated to us by U.S. authorities, including immigration and customs enforcement. EAM attracted attention to the fact that these practices have been in place for a long period," he added.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled for a two-day working visit to the U.S. beginning February 12, where he will meet with President Donald Trump.
Misri highlighted that the visit will help further strengthen and guide the bilateral relationship between India and the U.S.
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