With the deportation of many foreigners from the United States of America, and other countries, some important points come to the fore. As globalisation increases and migration and travel become easier than even before, it’s important to keep some aspects of global obligations in mind. First, it is crucial that awareness about immigration is spread across sectors. Perils of illegal immigration are many- deportation is, in some ways, the least of the concerns. Dire situations, human trafficking, forced labour, dangerous travel, exploitation- are all part of the illegal immigration channels. The countries, at large, need to spread awareness about legal channels of immigration. The populations also need to be warned against the perils of illegal immigration.

Second, following from awareness, it is also imperative that ‘agents’ who promise illegal immigration should be heavily penalised. There should be bodies/ombudsman to oversee and ensure that there is no exploitation of people on false pretexts. Of course, legitimate assistance in application of visas and travel documents is a somewhat necessary business. Nonetheless, reports of those indulging in illegal practices and false promises of immigration are aplenty. Strict action needs to be taken against them- to punish those who do it and to deter further wrongdoing.

Third, the home states should certainly support their citizens in cases of deportation. At the end of the day, they continue to be citizens- especially if another country rejects their right to stay and citizenship. Embassies and consulates around the world should be trained in compliance and the above mechanisms. Anyone who travels on a country’s document does so with a certain confidence. With India’s global ascent, consulates are also under an obligation to ensure the citizens are not exploited in any way and in cases of support.

Fourth, media reports indicate that this is likely to be an ongoing practice. Some suggest India may receive a plane every fortnightfrom the USA. The regularity of this demands clear protocols and procedures. Those who are deported must be given all opportunities to put their account forward. Justice should be done-both substantively and procedurally. This is a fundamental, and a non-negotiable requirement of natural justice. The procedures, processes and norms that are followed should be transparent, fair and within bounds of legal requirements. They should also be ethical and give due courtesy and weightage to everyone’s rights. It is always important to remember that with any censure or prohibition, the state address the individual in question qua her status with them. Thus the values that are at stake here are those of the states- how they address instances, even if they are one of deviation.

Last, and perhaps foremost, the dignity of those involved is a crucial consideration. Most countries that run on modern rule of law principles ensure dignity of each human. Some might draw the distinction between citizens and non-citizens- yet the obligation of regard for of dignity is uniform and does not differentiate between the two. Be is the state where one is illegal- or the parent state, to maintain the dignity of those involved is incumbent on all state actors. In fact the Indian judiciary and legislature have ensured that reasonable dignity of all is manifestly kept intact and any deviations are censured. This includes fair chances of representation, fair trails if needed and humane treatment. This fundamental right is non-negotiable and all those in the system should be made aware of this fundamental principle of ensuring dignity.

Social and political compulsions aside, the measures that are being taken are extraordinary. We stare at an uncertain future- one that stands on precedent and global, shared values. We must keep in mind, in posterity, when our time is assessed- it may be best to stand on the right side of history.