ICE Detains 60-Year-Oid Indian-Origin Woman After 30 Years in US

Babblejit Kaur, a 60-year-old Indian-origin woman, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The arrest occurred on December 1 during a scheduled green card interview in California. Kaur has lived in the United States for over three decades.

Her family states she has no criminal record. The detention is part of a wider immigration enforcement action under the current administration.

Long-Time Community Member Taken Into Custody

According to family statements reported by local media, Kaur was at an ICE office for what she believed was a final step toward permanent residency. Several agents entered and detained her at the front desk. She was then shackled and transported to a detention facility.

Kaur has been held at the Adelanto detention center in California’s High Desert. Her family claims they have not been allowed to visit her since the arrest.

Kaur and her husband settled in California in the mid-1990s. They ran a popular restaurant, Natraj Cuisine of India and Nepal, for more than twenty years. The business closed in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact.

She also worked at a local Rite Aid pharmacy for about 25 years. Kaur was reportedly preparing to return to restaurant work recently.

Family Appeals for Release Amid Legal Battle

The case highlights the complexities of U.S. immigration policy. Kaur had an approved immigrant petition filed by her U.S. citizen daughter and son-in-law. This is a common pathway to a green card for parents of American citizens.

Her detention during an appointment for that same process has caused alarm. Advocates point to it as an example of aggressive enforcement tactics.

Kaur’s daughter, Joti, has spoken publicly about the ordeal. She described her mother as scared and confused. The family has started a legal and public advocacy effort to secure her release.

The detention of Babblejit Kaur after decades of community life underscores the precarious nature of immigration status for many. Her case continues to develop as her family seeks answers and her release from ICE custody.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is Babblejit Kaur?

Babblejit Kaur is a 60-year-old woman from India. She has lived in California since 1994 and was a longtime restaurant owner and pharmacy employee.

Why was she detained by ICE?

She was detained during an appointment related to her green card application. Official reasons for the specific detention have not been publicly detailed by ICE.

What is her immigration status?

Kaur was in the process of adjusting her status to a lawful permanent resident. Her petition was approved, but she had not yet received her final green card.

Where is she being held?

She is believed to be held at the Adelanto ICE Processing Center. This facility is located in San Bernardino County, California.

What is her family saying?

Her family asserts she has no criminal record and is a valued community member. They are campaigning for her release and seeking legal recourse.

Is this part of a larger trend?

Immigration advocates note increased enforcement actions. Reports from agencies like Reuters often cover shifts in policy that lead to such cases.