‘I feel like a ghost’: new father deported by ICE to Bhutan that exiled his family
The Guardian World
by Lok DarjeeFebruary 15, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A new father deported by ICE to Bhutan, where he has no ties, is left unable to hold his seven-month-old daughter for the first time. Mohan Karki, separated from his wife and baby Briana, now lives in hiding nearly 9,000 miles away, using video calls to glimpse his family. His story highlights the emotional toll of U.S. deportations, which often send individuals to countries with little connection to their lives or families.
Karki, a legal resident at the time of deportation, was removed under ICE’s strict enforcement policies. Now in Bhutan, he faces an uncertain future and struggles to protect his safety while maintaining contact with his family. His wife, Tika Basnet, has been left to navigate parenthood alone, relying on virtual reunions to keep their bond alive.
This situation raises broader concerns about the impact of ICE deportations on families and communities. Many deported individuals are sent to countries where they lack connections or support networks, often leading to prolonged separation from loved ones. Advocacy groups argue that such policies harm not only the individuals but also their families, particularly young children who lose a parent without warning.
The case underscores the human cost of immigration enforcement and sparks debates over U.S. deportation practices. Readers interested in global human rights or political policies will find this story relevant to ongoing discussions about family separation, refugee rights, and the ethical implications of immigration enforcement.
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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/15/2026