By Sanjeev Oak
In a historic move that has ignited intense debate across the United States, former President Donald Trump initiated a series of measures aimed at curbing illegal immigration and revoking birthright citizenship—a legal provision enshrined in U.S. law for over 150 years.
Predictably, the liberal establishment in America has been vocal in its opposition, echoing a familiar global refrain. Similar to India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Trump has consistently placed national interest above political correctness. Both leaders, with their decisive, no-nonsense styles, have often found themselves at odds with global liberal lobbies.
“As in India, American liberals sought to undermine a leadership driven by nationalist priorities, but both electorates chose otherwise.”
The Birthright Citizenship Reversal
One of the most consequential decisions taken by Trump was to nullify the provision that automatically grants citizenship to children born on American soil, regardless of their parents’ immigration status. This constitutional guarantee, rooted in the 14th Amendment ratified in 1868, had long allowed the children of undocumented immigrants and birth tourism beneficiaries to become American citizens by birthright.
Trump’s executive order seeks to put an end to this long-standing legal loophole. The decision, though controversial, is poised to redefine U.S. immigration policy, impacting thousands of families—particularly those residing in the country on temporary work visas or having entered illegally.
Unsurprisingly, attorneys general from 22 American states have challenged the order in court, arguing that constitutional amendments cannot be undone by executive fiat. Immigration rights advocates have likened Trump’s unilateral move to authoritarian overreach.
“The President may wield executive power—but he is not a monarch,” they argue.
Nonetheless, the White House has stood firm, stating that if the matter must be resolved in court, so be it. Simultaneously, Trump has signaled a strong crackdown on illegal immigration, deploying the military to border regions and declaring a national emergency on grounds of national security.
Lessons for India
India, too, is grappling with an influx of undocumented immigrants, particularly from Bangladesh and Myanmar. Numerous cases have surfaced where these individuals have procured fake documents to gain legitimacy—birth certificates, Aadhaar cards, and even voter IDs. In one recent case from Akola, thousands of forged birth certificates were uncovered, highlighting a deep-rooted nexus of corruption.
The Union Home Ministry has directed Maharashtra authorities to launch immediate legal action against illegal immigrants. The number of undocumented migrants from Bangladesh and Myanmar residing in cities like Mumbai has grown at an alarming rate, creating law and order concerns and exacerbating social tensions.
“Illegal migration is not merely a demographic issue—it is a national security threat.”
There have been consistent reports of these infiltrators being involved in unlawful activities, with some even linked to terror operations. Their presence has already altered the socio-economic fabric of several urban centers.
Political Expediency and Vote Bank Politics
It is no secret that certain political factions have turned a blind eye to illegal immigration for the sake of electoral gain. The so-called ‘vote bank’ politics in both the United States and India have encouraged soft stances on immigration, often at the cost of national interest.
Trump’s crackdown—though controversial—has been consistent with his campaign promises. He has clarified that no changes will be made to the visa policies impacting Indian professionals, offering reassurance to one of America’s most dynamic diaspora communities.
India must now take a leaf out of this playbook. As border infiltration continues unabated, a firm and lawful approach to illegal immigration has become not just desirable, but imperative. The lesson is clear: security cannot be sacrificed at the altar of appeasement.
“Whether in Washington or New Delhi, shielding illegal immigrants for political leverage compromises national security.”
