Deportation Saga: Green Card Holder with Brain Tumor Faces Uncertain Future
CHICAGO - Paramjit Singh, a 65-year-old green card holder from Indiana, has been detained in a Kentucky county jail for almost two months, facing deportation despite his deteriorating health. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) claims Singh is subject to removal due to a forgery case, but his lawyer argues that the government's research is flawed.
Singh arrived in the United States over 30 years ago with a green card, seeking to build a family and business empire. He has been running gas stations in Indiana for decades. However, his life took a drastic turn when he was diagnosed with a rapidly advancing brain tumor, which has left him going blind and struggling to survive.
"I think I'm just going to give up," Singh told his niece, Kirandeep Kaur, during one of their daily phone calls. "I'll never get out of here." Kaur said her uncle's condition has worsened significantly since his detention, with over 20 pounds lost and a fear of dying in custody.
The DHS claims that Singh is subject to removal due to a forgery case, which his lawyer argues does not exist. The government also misclassified him as a removable alien, according to his attorney. An immigration judge found that Singh had served his time for a 25-year-old theft conviction and should be released from detention.
"This is a classic example of sloppy research by the Department of Homeland Security," said Singh's lawyer. "They are relying on outdated information and ignoring the facts."
The case has raised concerns about the treatment of immigrants in the United States, particularly those with serious health issues. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has expressed outrage over the situation.
"It is unconscionable that a person with a life-threatening medical condition is being held in detention," said a spokesperson for the ACLU. "We urge the government to release Mr. Singh immediately and provide him with the necessary medical care."
The DHS has not commented on the specific allegations, but a spokesperson stated that the agency follows all applicable laws and regulations when making deportation decisions.
Singh's family is fighting to have him released from detention and reunited with his loved ones. A petition has been started to raise awareness about his case and advocate for his release.
As the situation unfolds, Singh's health continues to deteriorate. His family remains hopeful that he will be released soon, but the future remains uncertain.
Background:
Paramjit Singh arrived in the United States over 30 years ago with a green card.
He has been running gas stations in Indiana for decades.
Singh was diagnosed with a rapidly advancing brain tumor and is going blind.
The DHS claims he is subject to removal due to a forgery case, which his lawyer argues does not exist.
Additional Perspectives:
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has expressed outrage over the situation, calling it "unconscionable" that Singh is being held in detention with a life-threatening medical condition.
Immigration advocates argue that the government's treatment of immigrants like Singh highlights the need for comprehensive immigration reform.
Current Status and Next Developments:
Singh remains detained in a Kentucky county jail, facing deportation despite his deteriorating health.
His family continues to fight for his release and advocate for his rights as an immigrant with a serious medical condition.
The DHS has not commented on the specific allegations, but a spokesperson stated that the agency follows all applicable laws and regulations when making deportation decisions.
*Reporting by Theintercept.*