Texas-Based Court Interpreter Detained, Legal Battle Against Deportation Begins

A Punjabi-origin woman living in the United States has been arrested after 35 years, sparking concerns over her possible deportation. The woman, identified as Meenu Batra, is currently facing legal uncertainty as US immigration authorities seek to deport her. According to available information, Meenu Batra was working as a court interpreter in Texas. She has been in custody in a Texas jail since March 17. While US immigration authorities are firm on deporting her, her legal team is actively contesting the move by citing various provisions of the law to prevent her removal from the country. In the ongoing legal proceedings, the court had directed the government to file its response by April 21. The authorities have submitted their reply in a Texas court; however, no final order regarding her deportation has been issued so far. Batra has been accused of violating immigration laws and residing in the United States for several years without proper authorization. Her arrest is reportedly part of a broader deportation campaign initiated during the Trump administration, targeting individuals living in the country without legal status. However, her lawyer has argued that she is entitled to legal protection under provisions that prevent her from being sent back. The court had earlier clarified that Meenu Batra cannot be deported to India. While she may continue to work in the United States, she will not be eligible for a green card. Notably, Meenu Batra has been residing in the United States for the past 35 years and serves as the only court interpreter in a Texas court for Punjabi, Hindi, and Urdu languages. Her personal circumstances have also drawn attention, as her elder son is an officer in the US Army. The case is currently under judicial consideration, and the final decision of the court is awaited.