US offers ₹2.2 lakh bonus, free flights to encourage voluntary departure of illegal immigrants; Taj Mahal image sparks controversy
US offers ₹2.2 lakh bonus and free flights to illegal immigrants for voluntary departure. Scheme sparks controversy for using Taj Mahal image in promo
Washington (The Uttam Hindu): The US Department of Homeland Security has launched a new scheme for illegal immigrants, offering attractive benefits to those who voluntarily return to their country. Under this initiative, immigrants will not only receive free air tickets but also an "exit bonus" of $2,600 (about Rs 2.2 lakh).
The special thing about this campaign is that the picture of Taj Mahal has been used to promote it, through which an attempt has been made to connect with the Indian diaspora.
'Voluntary Return' Made Easier
Through this scheme, the US administration has given illegal immigrants the option to return to their country without fear of arrest or deportation. This scheme has been specifically designed keeping in mind the citizens of countries like India, China and Colombia. Migrants will have to register themselves through the CBP One App and express their desire to return. After this, they will be assisted with travel and other procedures.
According to DHS data, more than 2.2 million illegal immigrants have benefited from the scheme since its launch in January 2025. This number reflects the scheme's popularity.
Immigrants who register under this scheme are granted a significant reprieve from arrest, as Immigration and Customs Enforcement will not prioritize their detention or legal action until they depart. This will allow them time to attend to their personal and professional matters.
Key benefits of the scheme
The US government has added several features to encourage self-deportation:
Cash incentive: $2,600 bonus upon arrival
Free air travel: Free tickets for immigrants from selected countries
Fine waiver: Previously imposed fines will be fully waived
Dignified return: Passengers will be treated like normal passengers, without handcuffs or arrest
What is the purpose?
According to experts, this scheme is an attempt to control illegal migration as well as adopt a humanitarian approach, so that people can return to their country voluntarily without any pressure.
Discussion on the picture of Taj Mahal
On the social media platform 'X', DHS has used pictures of famous landmarks of India's Taj Mahal, Colombia and China to promote this scheme. Its aim is to reach out to illegal immigrants who are hiding due to fear of arrest and to convince them that they can return home safely. However, there is also a lot of opposition on social media regarding this. Users have commented that using the picture of Taj Mahal in such a scheme is an insult to it.