US Responds To Backlash Over Indian Student's Viral Deportation Video: 'Will Not Tolerate Illegal Entry'

Following the handcuffing and deportation of an Indian student from Newark Airport in the United States, the US Embassy in India has stated that while the country continues to welcome legitimate travellers, it will not tolerate illegal entry, visa abuse, or breaches of US law.

It also highlighted that there is no inherent right to visit the United States.

"The United States continues to welcome legitimate travelers to our country. However, there is no right to visit the United States. We cannot and will not tolerate illegal entry, abuse of visas, or the violation of U.S. law," the US Embassy in India posted on X.

The incident gained attention after a video of the handcuffing was shared on social media by an NRI, who claimed the student was treated like a criminal by officials.

"I witnessed a young Indian student being deported from Newark Airport last night- handcuffed, crying, treated like a criminal. He came chasing dreams, not causing harm. As an NRI, I felt helpless and heartbroken. This is a human tragedy," the NRI wrote on X.

According to Kunal Jain, a social entrepreneur on social media, the student was speaking in Haryanvi, insisting he was not mad, but claimed the authorities were attempting to portray him as such.

"These children get their visas and get on a flight in the morning. For some reason, they are unable to explain the reason for their visit to the immigration authorities and are sent back in the evening flight tied up like criminals. Every day 3-4 such cases are happening. There have been more such cases in the last few days," Jain said.

In response to the incident, the Indian Consulate in New York took note of the matter based on social media posts and assured that they are communicating with local authorities.

"We have come across social media posts claiming that an Indian national is facing difficulties at Newark Liberty International Airport. We are in touch with local authorities in this regard," the New York Consulate General of India posted on X. "The Consulate remains ever committed for the welfare of Indian Nationals."

This incident occurs amidst a heightened US government crackdown on international students, with visas being revoked without prior notice.

Reasons have varied, from participation in pro-Palestine protests to traffic violations, often leaving students in legal uncertainty and widespread confusion.