Indian Student Restrained at Newark Airport Sparks Outcry
A troubling video has emerged showing an Indian student being handcuffed, restrained, and pinned to the ground by officials at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey. The footage captures multiple officers holding the student down, with two pressing their knees on his back, while his hands and legs were tied. This incident has ignited widespread concern and debate across social media platforms.
Witness Account: "A Human Tragedy"
The distressing scene was recorded by Kunal Jain, an Indian-American entrepreneur who witnessed the event firsthand. Jain described the student as tearful and overwhelmed, stating that he was being treated like a criminal despite coming to the United States to pursue his dreams.
"I witnessed a young Indian student being deported from Newark Airport last night— handcuffed, crying, treated like a criminal. He came chasing dreams, not causing harm. As an NRI, I felt helpless and heartbroken. This is a human tragedy," Jain expressed on social media.
He urged the Indian Embassy in the US to investigate the matter and provide support to the student involved.
Indian Embassy Steps In
Responding to the viral reports, the Indian Embassy in New York acknowledged receiving information about the incident at Newark Airport. They confirmed they are in communication with local authorities to gain clarity and emphasized their commitment to the welfare of Indian nationals abroad.
"We have come across social media posts claiming that an Indian national is facing difficulties at Newark Liberty International Airport. We are in touch with local authorities regarding this issue. The Consulate remains committed to the welfare of Indian nationals," the Embassy stated.
What the Witness Observed
In an interview, Kunal Jain provided more context on the unfolding events. He noted that although the student exhibited signs of distress and some agitation, the level of force used was alarming and uncharacteristic, even compared to how hostile suspects are sometimes handled.
Jain shared that communication barriers complicated the situation: the student spoke a dialect from Haryana, which airport officials reportedly could not understand. Jain attempted to mediate by offering to interpret, but officers declined his help and instead escalated the response by summoning additional law enforcement.
According to Jain, the student was declared a potential threat to other passengers and subsequently restrained tightly, with several officers present. Witnessing this public display of force moved Jain to tears, questioning the necessity and dignity of such treatment.
The student reportedly repeatedly said in Hindi, "Mai pagal nahi hu, yeh mujhe pagal bana rahe hai. Mai pagal nahi hu, yeh mujhe pagal sabit kar rahe hai" ("I'm not mad, they are trying to make me mad, proving that I'm mad").
Broader Implications and Past Context
This incident has revived painful memories for many, recalling the harsh deportation measures seen previously in the US, particularly targeting Indian nationals amid stringent immigration enforcement policies. In a recent case, numerous deportees were handcuffed and shackled in a manner widely criticized as degrading, prompting outcry both in India and abroad.
Experts and observers urge for review of such protocols to ensure that individuals, especially students and migrants, are treated with respect and dignity, reflecting the humanitarian values expected in international travel and immigration procedures.
Looking Ahead
The case remains under investigation by both US authorities and Indian diplomatic channels. Meanwhile, the online community continues to call for transparency, accountability, and humane treatment of all travelers, regardless of circumstance.
As the investigation unfolds, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by immigrants and the urgent need for sensitivity in law enforcement actions.
