Gandhinagar, February 28: Congress MLA Jignesh Mevani has raised concerns over the growing trend of Gujarat residents attempting illegal entry into the United States, attributing it to a severe unemployment crisis and agrarian distress in the BJP-ruled state.
Speaking in the Gujarat Assembly during the motion of thanks to the Governor’s address in the Budget session, Mevani questioned the state’s claims of economic progress. He pointed out the contradiction between Gujarat's touted image as a "vibrant and prosperous" state and the increasing number of youths risking their lives to cross the Mexico border.
Rising Illegal Migration Amidst Economic Hardships
Mevani’s remarks come a day after Gujarat’s Labour and Employment Minister Balvantsinh Rajput asserted that the state had the lowest unemployment rate in the country and ranked "number one" in employment generation. Countering this claim, Mevani stated, “If Gujarat is truly number one in development, why are our unemployed youth forced to undertake perilous journeys to enter the US illegally?”He emphasized that not just jobless individuals but also small farmers were seeking better opportunities abroad, as their aspirations remained unfulfilled in Gujarat.
Criticism of US Immigration Policies
Mevani also criticized former US President Donald Trump for his treatment of deported illegal immigrants from India. Referring to Trump’s 2020 visit to Ahmedabad, where he was warmly welcomed, the Vadgam MLA said, “The people of Gujarat gave him so much love, but in return, he deported young Gujaratis in handcuffs, treating them like terrorists.”He further expressed concern over the humiliation faced by these deported individuals. “Instead of silencing these youths and preventing them from speaking to the media, the government should focus on filling the vacant government posts to curb unemployment. This will prevent our youth from taking desperate measures and risking their lives at the Mexico border,” he added.
Wave of Deportations from the US
Highlighting the impact of the US crackdown on illegal immigrants, Mevani stated that 74 residents of Gujarat have been deported in three batches since February 6. He linked this issue directly to the state's unemployment crisis and deep-seated agrarian distress, urging the government to take urgent corrective measures.As the debate over Gujarat’s employment scenario continues, the increasing trend of illegal migration remains a pressing issue, drawing attention to the socio-economic challenges faced by the state’s youth.
