Among the 104 individuals deported from the US to India, one case is drawing widespread attention: Muskan, a 21-year-old student from Ludhiana, Punjab, is pleading for government assistance to return to the UK, where she was studying business before her unexpected detention and deportation.
Muskan had originally traveled to the UK on a student visa in March 2025, but her journey took a tragic turn when she entered Mexico during a vacation and then attempted to cross into the United States via the Tijuana border. Along with dozens of others, she was detained and later deported back to India on a US military flight.
The Story Behind the Deportation
According to Muskan, her actions were not meant to be illegal. She insists she entered Mexico legally and was unaware that stepping over the Tijuana border into the US without proper immigration clearance would lead to deportation and long-term travel restrictions.
She shared the following timeline:
- Traveled to the UK in March 2025 for a business degree.
- Visited Mexico on March 25, during her college vacation.
- Crossed into the US via Tijuana, unaware of the implications.
- Detained for 10 days in a US immigration camp.
- Deported back to Amritsar, India on March 3, 2025.
Muskan described her stay in the camp as non-violent, stating that officers were polite, and the detainees were fed and treated well. However, they were kept in handcuffs and were not informed until the last moment that they were being sent back to India.
Family in Crisis: Debt and Uncertainty
Muskan’s family, already under financial stress, had taken a ₹15 lakh loan to fund her studies in the UK. Her father, who runs a roadside dhaba, is devastated by the situation. The family had no communication with Muskan for over 10 days, causing extreme anxiety.
Her father said, “We sent her to the UK with dreams and borrowed money. We are shattered and now we don’t know how we will repay the loans or if she can ever resume her studies.”
Muskan still holds a valid UK student visa and argues that she never intended to overstay or live illegally in the US. However, due to her involvement in an immigration breach, she’s been informed that she may now be barred from flying to the UK or any other country in the near future.
Political Support and Plea to the Indian Government
Sarvjit Kaur Manuke, the MLA of Jagraon, has publicly supported Muskan’s appeal and has requested intervention from the Indian government. She emphasized that Muskan’s education is at stake, and the family’s financial condition leaves them without options.
“Her family is drowning in debt. Helping her complete her education is the only way they can recover and secure a stable future,” said Manuke.
Muskan is now urging the Ministry of External Affairs to step in and facilitate her return to the UK, where she still has time left to finish her two-year business course.
The Larger Picture: The Ongoing Illegal Immigration Crisis
Muskan’s story reflects a larger issue involving illegal migration attempts via Mexico. Many Indian students, often misled by agents or acting out of desperation, seek shortcuts into the US despite holding valid visas for other countries.
Of the 104 deported individuals, a significant number were young women—many of whom had previously entered the UK, Canada, or Europe legally but later chose to cross into the US, lured by the promise of better opportunities.
What Happens Next?
Muskan’s fate now rests in the hands of the Indian and UK governments. While she continues to voice her innocence and hope, travel restrictions due to deportation records may severely complicate her chances of reentering the UK.
For now, she’s at home in Punjab, her education stalled and her future uncertain.
FAQs
Why was Muskan deported from the US?
Muskan crossed the Tijuana border from Mexico into the US without valid immigration clearance, which resulted in her detention and deportation.
Did Muskan have a valid visa for the UK?
Yes, she was legally studying in the UK on a student visa but was caught in the US while trying to enter from Mexico.
Why did she try to enter the US during her UK studies?
She claims she went to Mexico during a vacation and crossed into the US without fully understanding the immigration rules.
What is Muskan’s current legal status?
She is back in India and holds a valid UK student visa, but her deportation may affect future travel approvals.
Has the Indian government responded to her plea?
Not yet officially, but MLA Sarvjit Kaur Manuke has called for government support to help Muskan return to the UK.
How much did her family spend on her UK education?
Her family borrowed around ₹15 lakh and additional funds from relatives to support her education abroad.
Can deportation from the US affect UK immigration status?
Yes, it can. Being deported may trigger travel bans or visa denials from other countries, including the UK.
What is Muskan requesting now?
She is requesting government assistance to return to the UK and complete her business degree, citing her innocence and financial hardship.
Click here to know more.
Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.