Milpitas(California)/Chandigarh-The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) has expressed concern over the changing pattern of immigration enforcement and removal orders, highlighting the need for greater awareness among immigrant communities, policymakers, and governments. NAPA Executive Director Satnam Singh Chahal said that immigration policies and enforcement actions continue to have a major impact on families, students, workers, and diaspora communities across the world.
According to immigration removal data, the number of individuals from India facing removal orders showed fluctuations from March to June 2026. The data indicates that 742 Indians received removal orders in March 2026, which increased to 829 in April 2026 and further rose to 849 in May 2026. In June 2026, the number stood at 801 removal orders, representing an approximate 8 per cent decline compared with May 2026.
Chahal said that while monthly variations are expected, the overall figures demonstrate the importance of legal awareness and proper guidance for immigrants. “Every immigration case represents a human story involving families, careers, education, and future hopes. Communities must remain informed about immigration laws and ensure that individuals seek proper legal advice rather than falling victim to misinformation or exploitation,” he said.
NAPA noted that removal trends have not been uniform among different nationalities. The data shows significant variations based on country of origin, immigration circumstances, and legal proceedings.
Among countries with a high number of immigration cases, Haitian immigrants experienced one of the largest increases in removal orders, rising by approximately 96 per cent between March and June 2026. Immigrants from the Dominican Republic and Brazil also recorded increases of more than 50 percent, higher than the reported national average increase of about 30 percent during the same period.In comparison, some nationalities experienced much smaller increases. Removal orders for immigrants from Cuba increased by approximately 5 percent, while individuals from El Salvador and Nicaragua saw increases of about 12 percent and 15 percent respectively, remaining below the national average.
The data also showed sharp changes among some smaller immigrant groups. Romanian immigrants experienced one of the largest increases, with removal orders rising from 170 in March 2026 to 595 in June 2026 — an increase of nearly 250 percent.At the same time, certain nationalities recorded declines in removal orders during the same period. The data indicated decreases among immigrants from Mauritania (14 percent decline), Somalia (15 percent decline), Senegal (17 percent decline), Bangladesh (37 percent decline), and Guinea (55 percent decline).
Chahal emphasized that immigration enforcement must remain balanced with fairness, transparency, and respect for human dignity. He said that immigrant communities contribute significantly to the economies, cultures, and social fabric of the countries where they live.“Immigrants are not just numbers in government statistics. Behind every removal order is a person, a family, and a community connection. Governments have the responsibility to enforce laws, but the process must also protect due process and ensure justice,” Chahal said.
NAPA continues to advocate for immigrant rights, community education, and greater cooperation between governments and diaspora organizations to address immigration challenges affecting Punjabis and other immigrant communities worldwide.
About NAPA:
The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) is a non-partisan and non-sectarian global organization working on issues affecting the Punjabi diaspora, including immigration concerns, community safety, human rights, and social awareness.