Indians Among 300 US Migrants Detained in Panama Hotel: ‘Help, We Are Not Safe’

Nearly 300 migrants, including individuals from India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, China, and other Asian nations, have been deported from the United States and are currently being held in a hotel in Panama. They are awaiting further instructions from international authorities regarding their return to their respective countries.

The migrants are currently housed at the Decapolis Hotel in Panama City, where they have displayed messages in their windows, pleading for help. Placards with distressing messages such as “Help” and “We are not save (sic) in our country” highlight their uncertain and precarious situation.

Authorities have reported that more than 40% of these migrants are unwilling to return to their homeland voluntarily. In response, the Panamanian government has assured that the individuals are receiving essential medical attention, food, and temporary accommodation as part of an international migration agreement between the US and Panama.

US-Panama Migration Agreement

Panama has recently agreed to act as a transit country for deportees while the US manages and funds the deportation process. This arrangement was formalized earlier this month following a visit by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The agreement facilitates the repatriation of migrants who have either refused to return home voluntarily or whose home governments have not accepted them.

Indian Government’s Response

Among the 300 detained migrants, approximately 50 are believed to be Indian nationals. The Indian Embassy in Panama has confirmed that they are safe and secure at the hotel, with access to essential facilities.

“Panamanian authorities have informed us that a group of Indians has reached Panama from the US. They are safe and secure at a hotel with all essential facilities. The Embassy team has obtained consular access,” the Indian Embassy stated on X (formerly Twitter). “We are working closely with the host government to ensure their well-being.”

Indian authorities have initiated the process of verifying the nationality of these migrants. Once confirmed, they will be issued emergency travel documents, enabling their return to India.

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US Efforts to Repatriate Undocumented Migrants

The US has been working closely with Central American nations like Panama and Costa Rica to repatriate deported migrants. This includes individuals from multiple Asian countries who either refused to return or whose home countries have declined to accept them.

With migration policies tightening under the current US administration, cases of deportation and forced repatriation have surged. The situation continues to raise concerns about the handling of undocumented migrants and their treatment post-deportation.

As international authorities work towards a resolution, the fate of these stranded migrants remains uncertain. Their appeal for safety and a stable future underscores the ongoing global migration crisis and the challenges nations face in handling deportations.