In a glaring contradiction of diplomacy and human dignity, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently visited the White House and lavished praise on U.S. President Donald Trump, even as reports surfaced of Indian immigrants being deported in handcuffs. This irony, where Modi extends unyielding support to a leader who humiliates his own country’s people, has sparked outrage among the global Indian diaspora.
Modi’s Unwavering Praise for Trump
During his recent visit to Washington, Modi not only aligned himself with Trump’s hardline policies but went as far as repackaging Trump’s infamous slogan, “Make America Great Again” (MAGA), into an Indian variant—“Make India Great Again” (MIGA). His unwavering support comes at a time when Trump is aggressively pushing his “reciprocal tariffs” policy, which could harm India’s economy by imposing harsh trade restrictions.
Beyond trade, Modi and Trump pledged stronger cooperation on energy, defense, and counterterrorism. Yet, amid the bonhomie and handshakes, Modi conveniently ignored a brutal reality—the inhumane treatment of Indian immigrants being deported from the United States.
Indians Deported in Shackles
Recent reports have revealed the harsh conditions faced by Indian nationals deported from the U.S. under Trump’s stringent immigration policies. Many of these individuals, including students and workers, were detained, handcuffed, and treated as criminals before being forcibly removed. Images and testimonies from deportees narrate a distressing picture of their journey back to India—humiliated, shackled, and powerless against a system that disregards their dignity.
For a leader like Modi, who champions an image of protecting Indians abroad, his silence on this issue is deafening. While he engages in diplomatic flattery with Trump, Indian citizens continue to suffer under his administration’s immigration crackdowns.
The Stark Hypocrisy
The double standard in Modi’s approach is evident. On one hand, he projects India as a global superpower, demanding respect on the world stage. On the other, he fails to condemn the degrading treatment of his citizens. His government, rather than confronting the U.S. on the unjust deportations, chooses to celebrate superficial agreements on trade and security.
Meanwhile, Trump, notorious for his harsh stance on immigrants, has only doubled down on deportations. Reports indicate that Indian detainees, including asylum seekers, have faced prolonged detentions under appalling conditions. The mass deportations have been met with criticism from human rights organizations, but Modi’s government has remained indifferent.
A Relationship Built on Political Convenience
The so-called “bromance” between Modi and Trump seems to be built less on genuine partnership and more on political convenience. Modi, aiming to project himself as a global leader, sees Trump as an ally in his nationalist agenda. Trump, in return, uses Modi’s admiration to solidify his support among right-wing groups and India’s growing conservative base in the U.S.
However, this relationship comes at a cost—the dignity and well-being of ordinary Indians caught in the crossfire of Trump’s immigration policies. The question remains: will Modi ever prioritize the rights and dignity of Indians abroad, or will he continue to turn a blind eye in the pursuit of political gains?
As the deportations continue, the silence from Modi’s government speaks louder than any of the praise he showered upon Trump. For the countless Indians who have been shackled and sent back home, this so-called ‘mega partnership’ offers nothing but betrayal.
The author Ramsha Waheed holds a Master’s degree in English Literature with expertise in research and content writing.
You can reach her at ramshawaheed01@gmail.com.
