Indians in America Opt for Preterm C-Sections Amid Trump’s Birthright Citizenship Deadline

Birthright Citizenship Deadline Sparks Concern

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order ending birthright citizenship for children born in the United States to non-citizens. This significant change, set to take effect on February 20, will deny automatic citizenship to children born to foreigners who are not U.S. citizens. Under the existing law, children born on U.S. soil automatically acquired citizenship, regardless of their parents’ immigration status.

Going forward, only children born to parents who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents will qualify for citizenship. This policy shift has created panic among expectant foreign parents in the U.S., especially those whose due dates fall after February 20.

C-Sections as a Solution for Citizenship

To secure U.S. citizenship for their unborn children, many non-citizen foreigners—primarily Indians—are turning to cesarean sections to ensure delivery before the new rule takes effect. This option, however, is limited to women in their late stages of pregnancy, typically those in their eighth or ninth month.

According to a Times of India report, Indian women have been consulting doctors in the U.S., particularly in states like New Jersey, to explore the possibility of early delivery. Dr. S.D. Rama, who runs a maternity clinic in New Jersey, shared that his clinic has seen a surge in inquiries from pregnant women about C-sections.

"Some women, even those who are only seven months pregnant, are asking about early C-sections," said Dr. Rama. He added that while preterm births are possible, they carry significant health risks for both the mother and the baby.

Health Risks of Preterm Deliveries

Doctors caution that performing a cesarean section before the full term can pose serious risks. Babies born prematurely may face complications due to underdeveloped organs, which can result in long-term health issues. Despite these warnings, many families are eager to proceed, fearing their children will lose the opportunity for U.S. citizenship if they are born after February 20.

One case involves a couple whose baby is due in March. Despite the risks, they are considering a preterm delivery to ensure their child’s citizenship. Dr. Rama emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the health of the mother and baby over the urgency of meeting the citizenship deadline.

Conclusion

The impending change to birthright citizenship laws has sparked widespread anxiety among foreign nationals in the U.S. While some are seeking medical interventions to deliver early, doctors stress the need to weigh the health risks involved. With the February 20 deadline fast approaching, the debate over this policy shift continues to stir emotions and ethical concerns.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.