The forthcoming ban on birthright citizenship in the U. S. as a result of President Donald Trump’s executive order has triggered a surge among Indian couples aiming to give birth prior to the February 20 deadline. Medical practitioners and maternity centers are facing an influx of requests for C-sections as families rush to ensure their children obtain American citizenship.
Trump’s executive order, which abolishes birthright citizenship for children of non-citizens, suggests that infants born after February 19 will not automatically gain U. S. citizenship. This change is causing unease among countless Indians living in the U. S. on temporary H-1B and L1 visas, many of whom are still waiting in the prolonged line for Green Cards.
Dr. S. D. Rama, an Indian-origin gynecologist practicing in New Jersey, remarked that his clinic has become inundated with requests for early deliveries, including from women who have not yet reached full term. “A seven-months pregnant woman came with her husband to sign up for a preterm delivery. She isn’t due until sometime in March,” Dr. Rama reported to The Times of India.
For many Indian families, obtaining U. S. citizenship for their child is seen as a vital opportunity. After they reach the age of 21, these American-born children can petition for their parents to acquire permanent residency. This situation has led to an uptick in early deliveries despite potential health risks.
Dr. S. G. Mukkala, an obstetrician located in Texas, stressed the dangers linked to preterm births. “Even if it’s possible, a preterm birth poses significant risks to both mother and child. Complications include underdeveloped lungs, feeding problems, low birth weight, and neurological issues,” he stated. Dr. Mukkala noted that he had spoken with approximately 20 couples in just two days, many apprehensive about the impending deadline.
On platforms like Reddit, users expressed diverse opinions. While some sympathized with the choices made by the parents, others criticized the situation. “Obviously, the doctors will say if it’s safe or not. That’s not terrible parenting,” one user commented. Another user pointed out the difficulties of pursuing the American Dream: “The American Dream is a scam. The green card backlog is over a century long now. ”
The approaching deadline has also sparked anxiety among undocumented immigrants. A man from California, who entered the U. S. illegally eight years prior, conveyed his distress. “We thought of seeking asylum, but then my wife got pregnant, and our lawyer suggested we get direct citizenship through our child. Now, we are all at sea,” he explained.
Some users on Reddit urged Indians in the U. S. to either return to India or explore opportunities in other countries. However, for numerous families, the February 20 deadline represents their final opportunity for stability and security.
Priya, an expectant mother with a due date in March, expressed her worries. “We relied on our child being born here. We’ve been anticipating our Green Cards for six years. This was the sole means to guarantee stability for our family. We are fearful of the uncertainty,” she communicated with The Times of India.
The race against time underscores the anxiety associated with the Trump administration’s policy changes. For many Indian families, the once attainable American Dream is facing challenges like never before.
