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Express View: Illegal migrants to Phd students, US weaponising visas
The recent U.S. crackdown on migrants, including international students, signals a troubling shift in policy. While addressing illegal immigration is a sovereign right, extending these measures to PhD students and skilled professionals threatens the very ecosystem that has made the U.S. a global hub for talent. By restricting visa access based on political expression and tightening immigration rules, the U.S. risks undermining its own economic and intellectual supremacy.
The Weaponization of Student Visas
A. Crackdown on Political Dissent:
(i) The case of Ranjani Srinivasan, a Fulbright scholar allegedly forced to leave the U.S. for her involvement in campus protests, highlights the increasing use of visa restrictions as a political tool.
(ii) Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s statement—“No one has a right to a student visa”—reflects a growing trend of using visa policies to suppress dissent.
B. Impact on Universities and Academic Freedom:
(i) The foundation of American higher education is built on intellectual diversity and freedom of expression.
(ii) If international students face deportation for expressing political opinions, it could create a chilling effect, discouraging global talent from choosing U.S. institutions.
The Economic Argument: Skilled Migration Fuels Innovation
A. Contributions of Skilled Migrants:
(i) Many top U.S. technology leaders, including Sundar Pichai and Satya Nadella, were once international students.
(ii) Skilled migrants contribute to key sectors like technology, research, and healthcare.
B. The H-1B Visa Factor:
(i) The U.S. economy benefits from a steady influx of highly skilled professionals.
(ii) Even business leaders like Elon Musk have opposed restrictive visa policies, recognizing the role of skilled immigrants in driving innovation.
Geopolitical Implications
A. Impact on U.S.-India Relations:
(i) India is one of the largest sources of international students and skilled professionals for the U.S.
(ii) As trade negotiations between India and the U.S. progress, the treatment of skilled professionals and their legal rights should be a priority.
B. Risks of a Closed Economy:
(i) A restrictive immigration policy could drive talent to other countries, such as Canada, the UK, or Australia.
(ii) The U.S. risks losing its competitive edge by discouraging the very individuals who contribute to its economic strength.
Disclaimer:
This analysis is based on the editorial content published in Indian Express and is intended solely for informational and educational purposes. The views, opinions, and interpretations expressed herein are those of the author of original article. Readers are encouraged to refer to the original article for complete context and to exercise their own judgment while interpreting the analysis. The analysis does not constitute professional advice or endorsement of any political, economic, or social perspective.
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