The Hindu: Published on 22nd Jan 2025:
Why in News?
U.S. President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order ending the provision of citizenship by birth.
Trump also threatened 100% tariffs on BRICS nations attempting non-dollar transactions.
The move is particularly concerning for thousands of Indian professionals in the U.S. on H-1B visas.
Democratic-led States filed lawsuits against the move, terming it unconstitutional.
The Indian government expressed concerns over the announcements.
Key Dimensions:
Policy Changes:
Birthright Citizenship:
Revocation of citizenship by birth affects children born to non-citizen parents in the U.S.
Impacts Indian professionals and undocumented immigrants who hoped to raise families in the U.S.
Tariffs on BRICS Nations:
100% tariffs on BRICS nations for pursuing non-dollar trade transactions could destabilize economic relations.
Impact on Indian Nationals:
Indian families working in the U.S. under temporary visas face uncertainty.
Nearly 7.25 lakh Indians, including 18,000 already on deportation lists, may face heightened immigration scrutiny.
Legal and Diplomatic Fallout:
Democratic States filed a lawsuit arguing that the Executive Order violates the U.S. Constitution.
India-U.S. diplomatic channels activated with EAM Jaishankar set to meet U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Issues of immigration and tariffs to be central to India-U.S. strategic discussions.
International Relations:
The Quad meeting involving India, the U.S., Australia, and Japan underscores India-U.S. cooperation amidst these tensions.
Discussions on non-dollar transactions could lead to friction between BRICS nations and the U.S.
Implications:
Domestic U.S.
Increased polarization between Republicans and Democrats on immigration policies.
Legal battles may delay or block the implementation of the Executive Order.
Global Economic Stability
U.S. tariffs on BRICS nations could strain global trade dynamics.
Non-dollar transactions by BRICS nations might gain momentum despite U.S. pressure.
India’s Strategic Position
Rising challenges for Indian professionals and families in the U.S. could influence bilateral relations.
India must balance its participation in BRICS with its strategic partnership with the U.S.
Way Forward
India should pursue diplomatic negotiations to safeguard the interests of Indian nationals.
BRICS nations may need to present a united front against U.S. tariffs while maintaining dialogue.
The U.S. judiciary will play a critical role in determining the constitutionality of Trump’s policies.
Conclusion:
Trump’s recent Executive Orders represent a shift towards more restrictive immigration policies and aggressive economic strategies. While this raises immediate concerns for Indian nationals and BRICS economies, diplomatic engagement and legal challenges will shape the long-term outcomes.
