Deported Indian Migrants Describe Harrowing Journey to the US via ‘Donkey Route’
A US C-17 military aircraft brought back 104 Indian migrants to Amritsar, many of whom detailed their traumatic experiences using the perilous ‘donkey route’ to the US. They faced dire conditions, including loss of belongings and witnessing death during their journey. One deported individual recounted being defrauded by a travel agent. Upon their return, migrants underwent thorough questioning by authorities.
On Wednesday, a US C-17 military aircraft transported 104 deported Indian migrants to Amritsar. Among them, individuals spoke about their harrowing experiences navigating the perilous ‘donkey route’ to the US, highlighting the extreme risks involved. One deported migrant recounted being trafficked through Italy and Latin America and described a grueling journey that included crossing steep hills and encountering the grim aftermath of fellow migrants left behind.
One Punjabi deportee reported the loss of clothes valued at ₹30,000-35,000 during their journey. He shared details of a lengthy 15-hour boat ride followed by walking approximately 40-45 kilometers across hills, stating, “If one slipped, there would be no chance that he would survive,” emphasizing the dire conditions faced by migrants during their trek to the United States.
Another deportee, Jaspal Singh, recounted being defrauded by a travel agent who falsely promised a legal route to the US for ₹30 lakh. Singh initially flew to Brazil but was coerced into crossing the border illegally instead of the assured air journey, resulting in his detention by US authorities after six months in Brazil.
Upon landing in Amritsar, the deported migrants were questioned by Punjab Police and various intelligence agencies, who sought to assess their backgrounds and ensure no criminal records existed among them. This thorough questioning aimed to address security concerns surrounding illegal immigration and potential criminal activity.
The issue of illegal immigration remains prominent, with many individuals attempting hazardous routes to enter the United States. The so-called ‘donkey route’ often involves dangerous conditions, high costs, and exploitation by traffickers. Recent returns of deported migrants shed light on the grave risks they took in pursuit of better economic opportunities, along with the distressing realities they face during their journey and upon return.
The accounts of deported migrants highlight the dangers of illegal immigration and the risks associated with human trafficking. Many individuals are lured by promises of safe passage, only to find themselves in perilous situations. The experiences shared by these deportees illustrate the extreme measures some take to achieve their dreams, often at great personal cost. Overall, this trend raises crucial questions about the ethics of human trafficking and the impacts of immigration policies.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
