US Canada Border: There has been an increase in incidents of illegal infiltration by Indian immigrants on the border between Canada and America. According to data from the US Department of Border and Customs (USCBP), there has been a significant increase in the number of Indian immigrants in recent years. This issue is becoming a major bilateral issue between the governments of US President-elect Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
According to USCBP, 109,535 people tried to enter America illegally in 2022, in which the share of Indians was 16%. In 2023, this figure reached 30,010, which was 16% of the total 189,402 migrants. So far in 2024, 43,764 Indians, 22% out of a total of 198,929, have tried to enter illegally. These figures are limited only to the migrants caught, while there is no information yet about the number of those who have not been detected.
Why illegal immigration from Canada to America easy?
According to the report of Washington-based Niskanen Center, Canada is becoming a convenient entry point for Indian immigrants. The reason for this is that the Canadian visa process is completed in 76 days whereas it can take about a year to get an appointment for a US visa. Additionally, the US-Canada border is long and relatively less secure, making it an easy route for migrants.
According to analysts, an increase has been seen in the number of migrants coming from Punjab. Many immigrants coming from Punjab, where the Khalistan movement has its roots, are being given asylum in America. However, Indian policy makers believe that due to the economic motives of these migrants, they are less likely to be active in separatist politics.
Trump’s warning on Canadian exports
Regarding the increasing pressure on the border, Trump has put pressure on Canada to resolve it. He has threatened to impose a 25% duty on Canadian exports. Trudeau recently met Trump in Florida to discuss this issue. According to the information, Canada’s Public Security Minister was also present during this period.
Trilateral dispute becomes bilateral issue
It is believed that this issue of US-Canada border may not remain only a bilateral but may take the form of a triangular dispute. The situation arising due to Indian immigrants has created new challenges between India, America and Canada. In such a situation, this issue can have a wide impact not only on border security but also on migration policies.
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