Karandeep-Canada: India’s indifference to its own citizens and the silence of the ruling government on a historic moment speak volumes about the current state of Indian democracy.
On a cold February morning, an American military plane landed in Amritsar, India, carrying 104 Indian nationals who were being sent back from the United States for being labeled as illegal immigrants. However, what followed next was nothing short of shameful. Instead of a welcoming response from the Indian government or even an empathetic gesture towards its own people, they were treated like criminals – their hands, feet, and even waists bound with restraints. To make matters worse, they were herded into a plane with only one washroom for all 104 passengers.
This is the same government that claims to champion the cause of the common man, but the treatment of these returnees proves otherwise. The Ministry of External Affairs, headed by S. Jaishankar, the Home Ministry under Amit Shah, and the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, who often talk about the pride of the nation, couldn’t even find time to acknowledge or meet these distressed citizens. Wasn’t it the responsibility of the leadership to address the situation, to express concern, and at the very least show some semblance of empathy for their plight?
Interestingly, the BJP and its leaders were busy making headlines in a completely different sphere. Narendra Modi was occupied with his spiritual pursuits at the Kumbh Mela, while Uttar Pradesh’s Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, was preoccupied with religious rituals. And what about the mainstream media? They were more concerned with trivial issues or election coverage in Delhi than addressing this incredibly significant moment. The "godi media" — a term coined to describe media channels closely aligned with the ruling party — chose to focus on political spectacles instead of providing coverage on this crucial issue.
The lack of transparency and accountability surrounding this military operation raises even more questions. Why was the plane allowed to land in Amritsar, a city lacking the infrastructure to handle such an operation? Why wasn’t the plane directed to the international airports in Delhi or Chandigarh, which are equipped to handle military aircraft? Is this a case of mismanagement, or is it something more insidious — a deliberate attempt to sweep this under the rug?
India is a proud nation that claims to uphold the values of justice and compassion, yet the actions of this government demonstrate nothing of the sort. The poor treatment of those sent back from the US is just one in a long list of missteps under the current regime, and it serves as a glaring reminder of how out of touch the government has become with the needs and concerns of its people.
In response to the incident, India's Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri, confirmed that the Indian government had raised concerns with U.S. authorities about the treatment of the deportees. Misri stressed India’s commitment to ensuring the dignity and safety of its citizens, acknowledging the significant concerns raised by opposition lawmakers and human rights advocates alike New Indian Express. However, the questions persist: Why was the plane allowed to land in a city ill-equipped to handle such a sensitive operation? And was this simply a case of mismanagement, or perhaps a deeper, more intentional attempt to conceal the truth?
The mainstream media response also provides a stark contrast. While many in the opposition condemned the government’s response, some media outlets have suggested that the government's cooperation with the U.S. in managing the deportation demonstrates diplomatic pragmatism and an adherence to the rule of law. These outlets argue that the government’s actions reflect a necessary balancing act to maintain bilateral relations with the U.S., despite the unfortunate circumstances surrounding the deportation. Yet, this narrative only serves to trivialize the legitimate concerns regarding human dignity and the responsibility of the government to protect its own people.
This divergence in media coverage exemplifies the ongoing debate about the treatment of Indian nationals abroad. While some defend the government’s stance, others, like Punjab's Non-Resident Indian (NRI) community and India’s Foreign Minister, have been vocal in criticizing the U.S.'s treatment of the deportees. They describe the deportation process as degrading, urging the Indian government to take a stronger position to defend its citizens from such mistreatment
Prime Minister Modi, who frequently uses "Mann Ki Baat" to address the nation, remained conspicuously silent on this humiliating situation. He couldn't even offer a single public statement to express his concern or to reassure the affected citizens. This absence of leadership is a direct reflection of the Modi government’s failure to fulfill its duty of care towards its citizens, particularly those in distress.
As Prime Minister Modi prepares for his upcoming visit to the United States in mid-February, the deportation incident will likely be a central issue in his talks with U.S. President Donald Trump. The way India handles this situation could set a significant precedent for future diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Do you as an Indian, believe that government is somewhere accountable for its failure to protect and serve its people. It’s time to stop applauding empty rhetoric and start demanding real action.