Amid controversy over U.S. immigration detentions, a California federal judge has mandated the prompt release of two Indian citizens from ICE custody. The decisions pivot on the absence of hearings, deemed a probable violation of constitutional safeguards.
Trump-era reforms hardened migrant oversight, fueling ICE’s detention surge and courtroom clashes. This follows a recent trio of Indian releases by the Eastern California District Court, exposing procedural lapses.
In one ruling, Chief Judge Troy L. Nunley liberated Kirandeep, who sought refuge in December 2021 after four years of model compliance in California. Living with her partner, she missed one ICE appointment for legitimate reasons—accepted then—but was detained months later in September 2025 without recourse.
Nunley condemned the hearing-less prolonged hold, enforcing her release and a no-rearrest-without-notice clause. Parallelly, Rohit gained freedom after over seven months’ detention since June 2025. His 2021 entry without inspection stemmed from Indian political fears; his asylum bid lingers.
ICE neglected his community bonds and hearing obligations, per the court. Such oversights risk egregious freedom erosions, the judge asserted, solidifying release as a due process-secured status.
As debates rage on border control versus human rights, these outcomes may recalibrate ICE operations, offering hope to detained asylum seekers and prompting policy reflections in Washington.