According to Minister of State for External Affairs V. Muraleedharan, 28 Indian students faced deportation from the USA in 2023. The states where the students faced deportation were not disclosed. The reports were released after concerns were raised by members of the Trinamool Congress, Pratima Mondal, and Professor Sougata Ray.
Highlighting the Indian government’s stance, Muraleedharan expressed their concerns to US authorities regarding the treatment of Indian students with valid visas. He emphasised the importance of fairness in handling such cases.
Moreover, while addressing queries in the Lok Sabha, officials noted that Indian missions abroad consistently educate and advise individuals on safe and legal migration, cautioning them against fraudulent agents and misleading job offers. Any reported cases of fraud or illegal migration are promptly referred to state governments for thorough investigation and appropriate legal action against wrongdoers and fraud recruitment partners.
Despite these concerns and deportations, the United States remains an attractive choice for Indian students pursuing higher education. The latest Open Doors Report showcased a remarkable 63 percent surge in Indian students opting for postgraduate studies in the US, totaling an impressive 1.65 lakh. This figure encompasses students enrolled in various programmes, including Optional Practical Training, at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
However, in contrast to the deportation incidents, it’s worth noting that the US issued over 140,000 visas to Indian students last year and is actively working to streamline and reduce the waiting period for visa appointments. This demonstrates the continued interest and support for Indian students seeking educational opportunities in the United States.
