India Committed to Legal Migration, Open to Return of Undocumented Citizens: S. Jaishankar

New Delhi, January 22 – External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has again stated that the government of India would like Undocumented Citizens abroad to return home but said that would not happen if the Indian talent pool were being taken away. Jaishankar, who was visiting the United States, said illegal migration should be dealt with while maintaining the reputation and integrity of India.

As a government, we are obviously very much supportive of legal mobility because we believe in a global workplace. We want Indian talent and skills to thrive on an international scale. However, we are firmly opposed to illegal mobility and migration,” Jaishankar stated.

He emphasized that illegal migration often attracts more unlawful action, which not only drags down reputations but is also harmful to all concerned. “With every country, including the US, we have maintained that if any of our citizens are staying illegally and if we confirm their identity, we have always been open to their legitimate return to India,” he explained.

Responding to reports that India is working with the US on deporting around 1,80,000 undocumented Indians, Jaishankar clarified that the government is still in the process of verifying the identities of those eligible for deportation. He cautioned against drawing conclusions based on speculative figures.

Our stand has been consistent and principled. If a person is proven to be of Indian origin and is staying illegally, we acknowledge their legitimate return,” he added.

He also spoke about the general issue of mobility between India and the US, citing the problem of long visa processing times. “If it takes 400-odd days to get a visa, it doesn’t serve the relationship well. I conveyed this to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and he acknowledged the importance of addressing these challenges,” he said.
The minister reiterated his commitment to increasing legal and mutually beneficial migration opportunities. “It is in mutual interest to have both countries provide for legal mobility, so the talent and skill flows seamlessly through a globalised world,” he noted.

Jaishankar’s comments come at a time when the US is debating its immigration policies. While India has taken a principled stand on illegal migration, he said that it was essential to work together to enhance legal channels for skilled professionals and students.

The minister’s statements reflect India’s balanced approach to addressing concerns over illegal migration while fostering stronger ties with global partners like the US.