Yes, we all agree that rules are rules...but thats why immigration officers have discretionary powers to judge the case and accordingly apply the rules. Yes, this family goofed...but they are (husband and wife) Indians...and these two kids were not a security risk being at the airport, even if they are Americans.
Not only did the immigration officers not apply their discretion, they also acted hostile to their fellow Indians (husband and wife).
1. Why were they not given more time to get their documents faxed? What was the hurry to deport them in 45 minutes...when there was no security risk for them to be at the airport? 2. Why was the french national given a transit visa...and these two minors who have Indian parents refused the same? 3. Why were these Indians not allowed to speak to someone senior when the person present was taking such an extreme stand? Should Indians on their own soil be treated in such a high handed manner?
Millions of illegal Bangladeshi and others are in India...and they walk in every day...and they are a major security risk - we still don't do diddly do about it.
But we have to apply the law to the letter, without any thought just for this family.
