Davinder Singh, a 21-year-old from Punjab’s Hoshiarpur district, was recently deported from the US after being detained for illegal entry. His experience at a US detention center was traumatic, with inhumane conditions, disrespect towards Sikh culture, and inadequate food.
Disrespect Towards Sikh Identity
Singh, part of the second batch of 116 Indian immigrants deported, revealed that Sikh turbans were thrown into the dustbin by US officials. “It was heartbreaking to see our religious symbol treated with such disrespect,” he said.
Harsh Living Conditions
The detention center’s conditions were extremely poor:
- Freezing temperatures with only thin blankets
- Same clothes for 18 days without any change
- Minimal food – small packets of chips, juice, half-baked bread, and uncooked rice
- Mental trauma due to prolonged detention in inhumane conditions
Singh stated that officials ignored their pleas for warm clothing or blankets, leaving them to suffer in the cold.
Journey and Cost of Immigration
Singh’s journey to the US was perilous, passing through Amsterdam, Suriname, Guatemala, and the Panama forest before crossing the US border on January 27. His family spent ₹40 lakh on his immigration attempt, only for him to be deported.
Impact of US Immigration Crackdown
With the US tightening immigration laws, three batches of deportees have been returned to India. Singh now plans to work at his father’s electronics repair shop in Tanda, Hoshiarpur, leaving behind his American dream.