The United States, through its embassy in Delhi, has revoked the visas of Indian business leaders and their families. The decision is due to their alleged involvement in trafficking precursors of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid at the heart of the drug crisis in the U.S. The announcement did not specify names, but it stated that those affected, and their immediate family members, are now ineligible to enter the United States. The embassy also stated its intention to identify and flag corporate executives involved in the trafficking of fentanyl precursors. The U.S. embassy in Delhi emphasized its dedication to combating drug trafficking. It stated that those involved in the illegal production and trafficking of drugs to the United States, along with their families, could face consequences, including being denied entry to the U.S. The embassy also acknowledged and appreciated the close cooperation from the Indian government in this matter. Both governments are committed to working together to tackle this transnational threat and safeguard their citizens from the dangers of illicit drugs. Fentanyl, a drug that can be produced in large quantities, is approximately 50 times more potent than heroin. In February, U.S. officials identified it as ‘the leading cause of death (among) people ages 18-45,’ and held China responsible as the main source for all fentanyl-related substances entering the country. The U.S. government has implemented measures such as tariffs on goods coming from China, Mexico, and Canada to restrict the flow of fentanyl. Fentanyl has been approved for medical use since the 1960s as a painkiller, but has become a major cause of opioid-related deaths in the United States. Over 48,000 deaths were reported in 2024. Its potency makes it extremely dangerous as a single dose of two milligrams can be fatal.
