Photo credit: www.cbc.ca
As Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Washington on Wednesday evening, he was focused on achieving a critical objective: to navigate the complexities of U.S.-India relations and mitigate potential fallout from punitive tariffs under President Donald Trump’s leadership.
Despite a series of contentious actions from the Trump administration shortly after he took office, Indian officials have expressed a guarded optimism regarding their diplomatic relationship with the U.S. Last fall, India’s foreign minister emphasized that India was not among the nations “nervous about the U.S.” and remained committed to fostering cooperation.
However, tensions have surfaced prominently in two areas of concern: trade and immigration. New Delhi is particularly apprehensive about the repercussions of any U.S. actions that could hinder its economic growth. Immigration is a particularly sensitive topic, as Indians constitute the third-largest group of undocumented immigrants in the United States. The latest estimates from the Pew Research Center indicate approximately 725,000 Indian nationals reside in the U.S. without legal status.
On the trade front, President Trump has accused India of being a “very big abuser” due to its elevated tariffs on imports. This criticism has prompted Indian authorities to contemplate reducing duties on products such as bourbon and pecans, which are significant for Republican-leaning states. Furthermore, discussions are expected to include India’s potential procurement of more American defense supplies and securing liquefied natural gas shipments from the U.S.
Yet, Modi must also address the rising discontent in India regarding the recent large-scale deportations of Indian migrants from the U.S. The return of 104 Indians on a U.S. military C-17 aircraft to Amritsar last week, handcuffed and shackled, ignited protests in India, reflecting public outrage over their treatment. Reports suggest a second group of deportees may arrive imminently.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection emphasized their commitment to enforcing immigration laws and conducting prompt deportations, which may further exacerbate the already volatile situation. The agency’s tweet specifically highlighted the unique nature of this mission as the farthest deportation flight executed using military transport.
This development poses a significant political risk for Modi’s administration, as the opposition seeks clarification on the treatment of deportees while Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar attempts to downplay the issue. Jaishankar asserted that while deportation flights have occurred under past administrations, the logistics are determined by U.S. authorities. He also reassured that discussions are ongoing to ensure that Indian nationals are treated fairly during such repatriations.
‘A matter of great shame’
In Rajatal, a Punjab town near Amritsar, the stories from deported families are filled with anguish rather than anger. Swarn Singh, a 48-year-old resident, voiced his shock at the treatment of those sent back, particularly the minors among them, stating, “It’s a matter of great shame for our government.” Singh’s own son, Akashdeep, was among the deportees, a journey the family financed through extensive loans and sacrifices, amounting to over $90,000.
Singh disclosed that they sold land, livestock, and other assets to facilitate Akashdeep’s trip through illegal channels, hoping for a better future. However, the reality of his deportation has left the family devastated, with Singh lamenting, “Our livelihood is gone, just like that.”
Akashdeep had moved to the U.S. after spending seven months in Dubai, only to be caught shortly after crossing the border and sent back home in just 12 days. His mother, Daljit Kaur, has struggled to cope with the emotional and financial fallout, describing her distress as overwhelming, leading her to seek medication for depression.
Soft touch expected from Modi
Both parents expressed their hope that during his discussions with Trump, Modi would advocate against deportations, fearing that these actions would abruptly end countless dreams for those seeking a better life abroad. The immigration issue is likely to be a focal point in the talks, but Modi is not expected to adopt an aggressive stance, as New Delhi has already communicated its willingness to accept Indian nationals facing deportation.
Modi’s relationship with Trump, characterized by a mutual understanding and camaraderie, may influence the dialogue. Modi recently referred to Trump as his “dear friend,” while Trump reciprocated with compliments regarding Modi’s character. The bilateral meeting at the White House will serve as a crucial test of this friendship and the extent of its influence on critical issues.
Historically, India has adeptly managed its relationship with the U.S. amid the turbulence of Trump’s early presidency while seeking to enhance its economic and political ties, especially given both countries’ common interest in countervailing China’s growing influence in the region.
In Punjab, anxiety looms among families about the potential increase in deportations, prompting fears for those who have ventured illegally into the U.S. College student Rajanpreet Singh shared his concerns, indicating many he knows may soon be compelled to return home.
Source
www.cbc.ca