US federal judges in California have ruled for the release of three Indian citizens who were detained by immigration authorities without proper hearings or notice after previously living in the United States. The rulings were made in separate cases in the Eastern and Southern Districts of California, where the courts found that Immigration and Customs Enforcement did not follow due process before re-arresting the individuals.
The first case involved Harmeet S., a 21-year-old who entered the US in August 2022. Harmeet, released under federal child protection laws, was participating in an alternatives-to-detention program when he was detained without warning in November 2025. The court ordered his immediate release, emphasizing the need for notice and a hearing before any future detention.
Another Indian citizen, Sawan K., who entered the US in September 2024 and was released by ICE during his asylum application process, was detained again in September 2025 without a warrant or hearing. The court ruled that he was entitled to procedural safeguards and ordered his release, setting requirements for any potential re-arrest.
In Southern California, Amit Amit, detained at the Imperial Regional Detention Center after entering the US in September 2022, was released on an order of recognizance before being re-arrested in September 2025. The court mandated notice and a hearing for any future detention, stressing the importance of meeting constitutional standards.
The judges highlighted that individuals released by immigration authorities have a protected liberty interest, and detaining them without proper procedures poses a risk of violating their rights and constitutional protections.
