Dauphin County commissioner asks Trump administration to stop deporting refugees to Bhutan

Dauphin County Commissioner Justin Douglas is advocating for an end to the Trump administration's deportation of Bhutanese-Nepali refugees, following alarming reports of arrests by Nepalese authorities. Recently, a group of 10 legally residing refugees was deported by ICE, prompting Douglas to voice concerns for their safety upon return to Bhutan. The situation escalated when it was revealed that additional deportations had occurred, with some refugees apprehended while crossing into Nepal. Douglas articulated the deep fears within the local Bhutanese community, which has grown to be the largest in the nation. He underscored the importance of due process, arguing that individuals facing deportation should have adequate time to understand their legal rights.

The commissioner criticized ICE for insufficient communication and a lack of transparency regarding deportation criteria, emphasizing that minor criminal histories should not justify tearing families apart. He called for immediate attention from both ICE and the Trump administration to protect these vulnerable individuals. This situation reflects a broader trend affecting Bhutanese-Nepali communities across the country, raising significant concerns about immigration policies and human rights.