As the United States prepares to elect a new president in less than a week, immigration remains a critical issue, especially for immigrant communities, including Indian Americans. Concerns are growing among these outside groups about the possible consequences of former President Donald Trump’s re-election.

Russell A. Stamets, partner at Circle of Counsels, a Delhi-based law firm, expressed deep concern about Trump’s presidency. “Indians should fear Trump’s presidency on many levels,” he said, highlighting Trump’s open hostility towards immigrants, especially non-whites, Business Standard reported.

Trump’s endorsement of Project 2025, a Conservative initiative that proposes sweeping changes to governance and immigration, has intensified fears within diaspora communities. The former president promised to implement what he described as the “largest” deportation operation in US history, targeting undocumented immigrants.

Widespread concerns among Indian immigrants

The Indian-American community, numbering more than 5.4 million people, plays an important role in building the US economy. Advocacy groups supporting immigration reform underscore that Trump’s proposed changes, particularly eliminating birthright citizenship, could face legal challenges because they conflict with the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

What is Kamala Harris’ approach?

In contrast, Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential candidate, has prioritized the need for comprehensive immigration reform. At a recent rally, Harris criticized the current immigration system as “broken” and called for legal action to combat illegal immigration.

Trump did not shy away from criticizing Harris, calling her immigration policies damaging. “The policy of importing immigrant gangs is a crime against our country,” he said at a campaign rally.

Impact on legal immigration

Neera Tanden, President Joe Biden’s domestic policy adviser, condemned groups advocating restrictions on legal immigration from Asia. “There’s been a lot of focus on securing the border, but there’s a clear difference in how leaders view legal immigration,” Tanden said, highlighting concerns about restrictions specifically targeting Asian immigrants. he said.

Tanden also noted Trump’s previous efforts to block legal immigration from India, which faced opposition in Congress during his first term.

Broader implications for Indian professionals

The United States remains a priority destination for Indian students and professionals, with over 140,000 student visas issued to Indians in 2023; This makes India the largest source of international students in the United States. Changes in immigration policies can directly impact this demographic.

Research shows that Indian professionals working in the US can earn significantly higher salaries than those in India, with some earning close to Rs 1 billion annually, while in India they can earn annual salaries ranging from Rs 300,000 to Rs 800,000.

(With agency input)