Asylum Seekers in US Told to 'Denigrate' India for Personal Gain

New Delhi: Despite rising numbers of Indian asylum seekers in the United States, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has defended the nation's image and claimed that those seeking asylum "denigrate" it for personal gain. The statement comes amidst reports that over 41,000 Indians have applied for asylum in the US in the past year alone.

According to data released by the US Department of Homeland Security, India recorded a significant increase in asylum applications over the last three years, with an astonishing 855 per cent rise in just a few years. The US government's own report categorizes those seeking asylum as "refugees" who have been persecuted or fear persecution due to their nationality, religion, social group, or political opinion.

MEA spokesperson claimed that Indian asylum seekers take advantage of the democratic country's systems to obtain benefits for personal reasons, while neglecting the formal channels provided by the government to address grievances. "The Government of India believes asylum seekers denigrate the nation and society to obtain personal gains despite the fact that India provides avenues for everyone to redress their grievances lawfully," the spokesperson stated.

The claim has sparked debate among lawmakers and observers, who argue that there is no evidence to suggest that Indian asylum seekers are abusing the system for personal gain. The statement by MEA has also been seen as a veiled attempt to downplay the humanitarian crisis facing Indian citizens seeking reprieve in a foreign land.

Experts warn of the dangers of such responses, asserting that they may discourage genuine aspirants who genuinely fear persecution. As India continues to grapple with rising poverty and inequality, it remains to be seen how policymakers will address growing numbers of asylum seekers at its ports.