The U.S. Department of State announced visa restrictions on Monday targeting owners, executives, and senior officials of Indian travel agencies accused of knowingly facilitating illegal immigration to the United States.
Spokesperson Tammy Bruce stated the measures aim to “disrupt smuggling networks” exploiting vulnerable migrants, adding that U.S. consular offices in India are collaborating with local security agencies to gather evidence against violators.
The sanctions could also affect individuals eligible for the Visa Waiver Program, barring them from entering the U.S.
Military Aircraft Deports 104 Indians in Unprecedented Operation
The move follows a February 3 deportation flight from the U.S. to Amritsar, Punjab, marking the first use of a military aircraft explicitly for mass removals. Indian authorities reported that among the 104 deportees, 33 were from Gujarat (Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s home state), 30 from Punjab, and the remainder from Haryana. The operation occurred days before Modi’s meeting with U.S. officials, underscoring heightened scrutiny of immigration compliance amid strained bilateral negotiations.
Voluntary Departure Policy Sparks Debate Over Costs, Ethics
The Biden administration has expanded a Trump-era policy incentivizing undocumented migrants to “self-deport” by offering $1,000 stipends and travel assistance. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem defended the approach as cost−effective, noting forced deportations average $17,000 per person versus $3,000–$5,000 for voluntary returns. Over 152,000 migrants have been removed under the program since 2023, with plans to deport 5,000 additional detained individuals.
Critics, however, warn of humanitarian and diplomatic fallout. “Mass deportations risk fracturing families and destabilizing partner nations,” said immigration advocate Priya Desai, echoing concerns raised during recent Congressional hearings. Lawmakers also questioned the Pentagon’s use of non-aircrew military personnel for deportation flights, citing ethical and operational conflicts.
With an estimated 14 million undocumented individuals in the U.S., demands for stricter enforcement have intensified. Bruce reiterated that upholding immigration laws “honors American citizens and preserves the rule of law,” but advocates argue reforms must balance security with pathways to legal status.