Awaits confirmation on deported nationals from Panama, Costa Rica: Centre government

New Delhi: India is awaiting confirmation on whether some of the individuals deported to Panama and Costa Rica are its citizens, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said during a weekly press briefing.

“We understand that some of them may be Indian nationals and are in touch with the local authorities,” Jaiswal stated. He added that once verification is complete, arrangements will be made for their return.

Commenting on illegal immigration, Jaiswal said, “We are committed to fighting it.”

Regarding reports of deportation flights, he said, “We have seen some reports about deportation flights to Panama and Costa Rica. It is now our understanding that this has happened under an agreement between the US and the respective governments.”

“Both Costa Rica and Panama have agreed to act as transit countries for deportees, while the US bears all the costs of the proceedings.”

Jaiswal confirmed that India has not yet received official information from Costa Rican authorities but has learned from media reports that individuals have been sent there.

Meanwhile, talks are ongoing with Panama, and the Indian embassy remains in constant contact with local authorities.