Blow for Indians in US as Donald Trump compiles list of dangerous criminals; 89 NRIs included

Washington: Amid President Donald Trump's crackdown on illegal immigrants in the United States, a shocking revelation has emerged. Eighty-nine people of Indian origin are included in the "Worst of the Worst" list released by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This is the latest example of the Trump administration's crackdown on immigrants, including Indians.

The list, released as a public database, contains details of nearly 25,000 "criminal illegal aliens," meaning illegal immigrants convicted of serious crimes such as murder, sex crimes, and drug trafficking, who have been arrested by ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) and CBP (Customs and Border Protection).

The names, photos, crimes committed, and nationalities of criminals have been made publicly available on the website WOW.DHS.GOV launched by DHS. DHS stated in a social media post, “This website has been launched so that American citizens can see which criminal illegal immigrants we are arresting, what crimes they committed, and from which communities they were removed.” Indian-origin Amandeep Multani and Harjinder Singh have also been added to this list of dangerous criminals. They are facing drug trafficking charges.

Is this just a glimpse?

DHS wrote that this is just a glimpse and clarified that this list is only a 'snapshot', as the full number of criminals apprehended during the Trump administration could be much higher. In a strong statement, the department said, “These are the people who terrorized our communities. We will not stop until every such person is deported. American citizens should not suffer at the hands of those who have no legal right to be here.”

What is Trump's Immigration Policy?

Donald Trump promised strict action against illegal immigration during his election campaign. On the very first day of his second term, he declared a "national emergency" on the US southern border and announced the deployment of more troops. He also reiterated his commitment to expel "criminal aliens."

What are controversies and protests over the action?

However, controversy is deepening within the US over this strictness. Violent incidents have occurred during immigration raids in several states. Democratic lawmakers, as well as some Republican leaders, are displeased with this action. Democratic lawmakers in the US Congress have halted funding to DHS and demanded reforms to ICE and CBP. They demand that federal agents wear body cameras and display ID. They also demand that these agents remove their masks so they can be identified. However, the Trump administration is refusing to accept these demands.

Why is this a sensitive Issue for the Indian community?

The inclusion of 89 people of Indian origin on the ‘Worst of the Worst’ list is a sensitive and concerning issue for the Indian diaspora. However, it is also clear that all those on the list have been convicted of serious crimes. Experts say this move will impact immigration policy in the United States, the image of diaspora communities, and the international human rights debate.