An immigration appointment in California turned into a detention that shocked a family and a community. Babblejit “Bubbly” Kaur, a 60-year-old Indian-origin woman, was taken into custody by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during what her family believed was the final step of her green card process.
Babblejit Kaur has lived in the US for over three decades. She has no criminal record. Her detention has raised fresh concerns about immigration enforcement actions targeting long-time residents.
Who is Babblejit Kaur aka ‘Bubbly Kaur’?
Babblejit Kaur moved to the US in 1994. She first lived in Laguna Beach. She later settled in Long Beach, California. For more than 20 years, she and her husband ran Natraj Cuisine of India and Nepal on Belmont Shore’s 2nd Street. Locals knew the restaurant well. Many saw the couple as part of the neighbourhood.
Babblejit Kaur also worked for around 25 years at a Belmont Shore Rite Aid. The store closed earlier this year. She was preparing to return to restaurant work at Royal Indian Curry House.
Why Was Babblejit Kaur Detained by ICE?
On December 1, Babblejit Kaur went to an ICE office for a biometric scan related to her pending green card application. Her family believed this was a routine appointment. They expected it to be one of the last formalities before permanent residency approval.
Instead, federal agents entered the office. Officers called Kaur into a room. They informed her that she was under arrest. She received a brief phone call with her lawyer. Agents then detained her. “She was really scared,” Joti Kaur said.
Babblejit Kaur: Family Details & Immigration Status
Babblejit Kaur has three children. Two are US citizens. Her daughter Joti lives legally in the US under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) programme. She had an approved green card petition through her US citizen daughter and son-in-law. Her family believed her case was moving toward completion.
Where is Babblejit Kaur Being Held?
After the detention, officials gave the family little information. For hours, they did not know where she was. Authorities later transferred Kaur overnight to Adelanto ICE Processing Centre. The facility sits in California’s High Desert. It previously served as a federal prison. Her family says she is held in a large dorm-style room. Lights stay on overnight. Noise remains constant. Sleep becomes difficult.
Babblejit Kaur Family Alleges Harsh Treatment
Babblejit Kaur’s daughter described the moment officers moved her mother. “She was really scared,” Joti said. Babbeljit Kaur was reportedly shackled at her hands and feet. Officers placed her in a van with other detainees.
“It’s been a nightmare… We’re trying anything and everything to get her out. She doesn’t belong there. It’s so inhumane,” she added.
Political Response and Legal Efforts
Democratic Congressman Robert Garcia, who represents Long Beach, has called for Kaur’s release. His office has contacted federal agencies. The family is preparing legal filings. They hope to secure her release on bond.
Broader Immigration Pattern
Babblejit Kaur’s detention comes amid a broader US immigration crackdown. Deportations of Indian nationals have increased sharply in recent years. Many families now fear sudden enforcement actions, even during routine immigration appointments. For her family, the focus remains simple. They want her back home.
What Does This Mean for Indians Living in the US?
Babblejit Kaur’s detention has raised concern among Indians in the US. Even long-term residents with approved petitions can face sudden ICE action during routine appointments. Her case highlights stricter immigration enforcement and limited transparency.
It has increased fear among immigrants navigating green card, visa, or status renewal processes. Legal experts now stress the importance of attending appointments with full documentation and legal guidance. Families are closely watching her case, as it could influence how immigrants approach future government appointments.
