Bihar assembly: Handcuffed CPI(ML) Liberation MLAs protest over US deportees

The Bihar assembly commenced its budget session on Friday, 28 February, with a novel protest by MLAs of the CPI(ML) Liberation (Communist Party of India (Marxist–Leninist) Liberation), reports ABP Live.

The legislators entered the House wearing handcuffs, symbolising their condemnation of the alleged mistreatment of Indians illegally in the US during their deportation to India and other countries.

They demanded an end to actions that they believe compromise India's dignity and called for the cessation of what they termed ‘grossly insulting’ behaviour towards Indian nationals by American authorities.

The display recalled a similar protest demonstration in the Uttar Pradesh assembly earlier this month by Samajwadi Party MLAs led by Atul Pradhan.

Notably, both states are ruled by parties from the NDA (National Democratic Alliance) — the BJP in Uttar Pradesh and the JD(U) in Bihar.

According to AP, the protest aligns with recent national concerns regarding the treatment of Indian deportees. Earlier in February 2025, Opposition lawmakers in Parliament disrupted proceedings to protest the alleged mistreatment of 104 Indian immigrants deported by the United States.

Reports indicated that these individuals were transported on a US military aircraft with their hands and legs shackled during the flight from the U.S. to Amritsar. Prominent Congress members criticised this "degrading" treatment, emphasising the need for respect and humane handling of deportees.

The issue has garnered widespread attention, with various political figures and parties expressing their disapproval of the treatment meted out to Indian nationals abroad. The CPI-ML's demonstration in the Bihar Assembly reflects a broader sentiment of indignation and a call for the protection of the dignity of Indian citizens worldwide.