The video, shared by Chief Banks, highlighted the US authorities' latest immigration crackdown.
Washington, February 6, 2025 – A recently released official video by the United States Border Patrol (USBP) has sparked outrage after it showed Indian immigrants being deported on a military aircraft—handcuffed and shackled. However, what has drawn the most criticism is the statement by Chief Michael W. Banks, in which he referred to the deported Indians as "aliens."
The video, shared by Chief Banks, highlighted the US authorities' latest immigration crackdown. In the statement accompanying the footage, he said:
"USBP and partners successfully returned illegal aliens to India, marking the farthest deportation flight yet using military transport. This mission underscores our commitment to enforcing immigration laws and ensuring swift removals. If you cross illegally, you will be removed."
The use of the term "aliens" has triggered strong reactions, with critics calling it derogatory and dehumanizing. Many believe that such language further alienates migrants and reduces them to mere statistics rather than individuals seeking better opportunities.
An official video shared by the #US shows illegal #Indianimmigrants deported on a military aircraft, where they can be seen handcuffed and shackled.
— Rozana Spokesman (@RozanaSpokesman) February 6, 2025
The video, shared by Chief #MichaelWBanks, includes the statement: “USBP and partners successfully returned illegal aliens to… pic.twitter.com/KZX90LVbVR
This mass deportation marks one of the longest-distance removal operations carried out using military aircraft, emphasizing the Biden administration’s firm stance on illegal immigration. However, for the deported individuals and their families, it represents a heartbreaking end to their American dream.
With immigration policies tightening, the fate of many undocumented Indians in the US remains uncertain, while families back in India struggle to cope with the emotional and financial turmoil caused by these forced removals.
