International Desk
23 January
Ludhiana
Journalist Sandeep Dhand
Introduction
In a bold and controversial move, the President of the United States has initiated significant changes through executive orders during his second term. Among these changes is a proposal to end the automatic grant of American citizenship to children born to non-American parents. This decision has sparked widespread debate, raising questions about its implications for immigrants, including Indian expatriates in the U.S.
The Executive Order Explained
The executive order, titled “Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship,” emphasizes the importance of citizenship as a privilege rather than a right. According to the order, effective February 20, children born to non-American parents will no longer be granted automatic citizenship under the following conditions:
- The mother is residing in the U.S. illegally at the time of birth.
- The father is neither a U.S. citizen nor a lawful permanent resident.
- The mother is a temporary legal resident during the child’s birth.
- Neither parent qualifies as a legal resident or citizen of the U.S.
The administration argues that this decision aims to protect the integrity of American citizenship and reduce incentives for illegal immigration.
Impact on Birthright Citizenship
The U.S. Constitution’s 14th Amendment currently grants citizenship to anyone born on American soil, regardless of their parents’ immigration status. This provision has long been considered a cornerstone of American immigration policy. However, critics argue that it incentivizes illegal immigration and serves as a loophole for non-citizens to gain access to U.S. benefits through their children.
While the President’s executive order seeks to redefine the scope of birthright citizenship, legal experts believe that such a change may require a constitutional amendment rather than an executive directive. Any attempt to alter the 14th Amendment would need approval from two-thirds of both houses of Congress and ratification by three-fourths of state legislatures.
Legal and Political Challenges
Legal scholars have expressed skepticism about the feasibility of enforcing this executive order. Many argue that the courts, rather than the administration, will ultimately decide its validity. Experts believe that redefining birthright citizenship through an executive order is likely to face significant legal challenges, potentially delaying or nullifying its implementation.
Despite these hurdles, the administration remains firm in its stance, citing the need to prioritize American interests and reduce illegal immigration.
Implications for Immigrants, Including Indians
The proposed changes could have far-reaching consequences for immigrant communities in the U.S., including the large population of Indian expatriates. Many Indian citizens reside in the U.S. on work visas like H-1B or as legal permanent residents.
Currently, children born to these immigrants automatically receive U.S. citizenship. However, if the executive order is upheld, their citizenship status could come under scrutiny. This could create uncertainty for families planning to build their futures in the U.S.
According to recent estimates, there are approximately 5.4 million Indians living in the U.S., making up about 1.47% of the population. Many of them are first-generation immigrants, while others have children born as American citizens. The new policy could disrupt the lives of families and raise concerns about their long-term prospects in the U.S.
The Debate on Immigration Policies
Supporters of the executive order argue that it is a necessary step to curb illegal immigration and uphold the value of American citizenship…