Subhechcha Ganguly 
The minister also mentioned that the government is still in the process of verifying individuals from the US who may be eligible for deportation to India. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated on Wednesday that India has always been open to the “legitimate return” of undocumented Indian immigrants, according to a report by news agency PTI. Jaishankar further emphasized that the Indian government strongly supports legal mobility, believing in a global workforce where Indian talent and skills should have maximum opportunities. However, he also made it clear that India is firmly against illegal migration and unlawful mobility.
The minister stated that India has always maintained the stance, both with the US and other countries, that any Indian citizen living as an illegal immigrant is welcome to return to India through legal processes. “This position is not specific to the United States. While I understand that there is currently some debate and sensitivity around the issue, we have consistently held this position, and it remains unchanged. I made this clear to Secretary (of State Marco) Rubio,” Jaishankar said regarding the Trump administration’s crackdown on immigration.
Jaishankar also mentioned that during bilateral discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, he emphasized that it was in the best interest of both countries to find solutions that would facilitate legal mobility.
“If it takes around 400 days to get a visa, I don’t think that serves the relationship well. He (Rubio) also acknowledged this point,” Jaishankar added.
