Promises to keep

The US needs a more inclusive and effective immigration system that honours its legacy as a land of opportunity

- SUHAG A. SHUKLA

The challenge of illegal immigration has become a pressing issue in the United States, largely because of the failure of successive administrations and the Congress to address the country's broken immigration system. A well-functioning and humane immigration system is crucial for the health of American governance, economy, society and democracy.

Recent data from the Pew Research Centre shows that Indians form the third-largest undocumented immigrant population, after Mexico and El Salvador, and ahead of Guatemala and Honduras. While there have been instances of Indian deportations, there is no evidence to suggest that Indians are being disproportionately targeted compared to other nationalities. If such deliberate targeting comes to light, the Government of India must address the issue-as it relates to Indian nationals directly-with the US, and we will certainly redouble our efforts to educate the community about their rights and advocate for equal protection and due process.