Donald Trump is pushing for mass deportations and ensuring that fewer people from other countries enter America. His stern position on Indians is particularly evident. Sometimes, he imposes hefty fees on work visas, while at other times, he sets university rules designed to prevent Indian students from staying long-term after their studies. Amidst this backdrop, some liken the US to Uganda, suggesting that if skilled Indians continue to face hurdles, America might soon mirror Uganda's fate. But what truly transpired in Uganda?
The Villain's Tale Begins with Idi Amin
In 1946, Idi started as a cook in the King's African Rifles. Standing over six feet tall and known for his imposing stature and brutality, he quickly climbed ranks. By the early '70s, he orchestrated a military coup to seize control of the nation.
Initially, people assumed that a ruler connected to Africa's native tribes would empathize with their grievances. However, the opposite occurred. Idi rapidly revealed his true nature, suppressing any dissent ruthlessly. He particularly harbored animosity towards Indians and other South Asians residing in Uganda.
Indian Success in Uganda
During British rule, Indians had firmly established themselves in Uganda over decades. They became tremendously successful entrepreneurs, dominating sectors like hotels and banking. They played a pivotal role in the country's economy, providing employment opportunities across Uganda. While public discontent was minimal, jealousy and unrest simmered among the elite.
Source: aajtak
In August 1972, Idi shockingly announced that nearly 70,000 Indians and other South Asians had to exit the country within three months. Various reports indicate that he based this decision on a dream wherein a higher power had commanded him to do so. The announcement came so suddenly that many initially dismissed it as a joke, only to realize time was quickly slipping away.
No Mercy for Fleeing Individuals
The cruelest aspect of the decree was that people could only carry up to two suitcases and a few pounds. They were compelled to abandon all accumulated wealth and property. Distressed, numerous individuals resorted to suicide, while others sought escape, only to face further animosity from Idi's soldiers. Their belongings were confiscated, down to the clothes they wore.
Indians returned to Britain, America, and even India. By November, Uganda was stripped of its Indian community.
Idi's aim was to distract the populace from his tyrannical actions through mass deportation for national interests, but it backfired spectacularly. The locals, once colonized under the British, lacked modern skills or business acumen. Indians had significantly contributed to commerce, banking, textiles, hotels, and small industries, ensuring employment for many locals. The sudden vacuum crippled these sectors, leaving no quick replacements.
Last year, Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni admitted that expelling Indians during Idi Amin's regime was a grave mistake, even offering an apology. Many Indians eventually returned, restoring their stronghold.
Source: aajtak
The American Context
Trump mirrors acts once executed by Idi. He seems agitated with Indians, adopting a one-size-fits-all approach that inconveniences hardworking Indians. Consequently, concerns arise that the American economy might face a fate similar to Kampala's.
According to World Population Review, over five million Indians reside in the US, marking them as America's largest Asian community. From leading tech firms to health, hospitality, and banking, Indians have a significant presence. Five years ago, the US census reported an average annual income of $64,000 per person, whereas Indian Americans generally earn nearly double. Numerous Indian-origin CEOs generate employment for millions of Americans.
What If the Indian Population Leaves the US?
The US economy heavily leans on experts and highly-skilled individuals. Should Indians migrate en masse, the immediate impact on corporations would be palpable. The American system currently lacks provisions for such abrupt compensation. Training either foreign nationals or domestic talent requires exhaustive efforts, resources, and time. The interim losses remain considerable.
Opponents of Indian immigration wrongly argue that they snatch jobs from Americans. Yet evidence and reports showcase that Indians typically occupy high-skilled positions where Americans are sparse. Therefore, American job losses are unlikely due to Indian presence.
