• Source:JND
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The Trump administration has a new plan that might force green card holders living in the United States to give up their social media accounts to the government. This is part of their tough stance on immigration. This is now the first time when the US administration has pressed migrants to share their social media account details with the government. Currently, people applying for visas from other countries already have to share their social media usernames with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Green card holders social media accounts scrutiny

The new idea would make this rule apply to people already living legally in the US, like those with green cards or seeking asylum, who want to stay permanently. This could let the government stop people who criticise them from staying in the country. It would affect many Indians living legally in the US who talk about Indian and US politics online. They might stop speaking out because they’re worried about getting in trouble.

On March 5, the Trump administration asked for public opinions on this plan. They said USCIS needs social media usernames and platform names from applicants to check who they are and make sure they’re not a security risk.

The document explained that looking at social media helps with "better identity checks, safety reviews, and national security."

New move could affect Green Card holders

This plan builds on a rule that already makes visa applicants from other countries share their social media. Now, they want to check the social media of people already living legally in the US, like green card holders and asylum seekers applying for permanent status. This comes as the Trump administration is cracking down harder on immigration and watching green card and visa holders more closely.

Trump immigration crackdown And parents concerns

Since Trump came into power, immigrants across the country have been anxious about his pledge to deport millions of people. Rapid changes in immigration policy have left many confused and uncertain about their future.

At a time when many migrant families-- even those in the country legally-- are assessing whether and how to go about in public, many school systems are watching for effects on student attendance. Several schools said they were fielding calls from worried parents about rumours that immigration agents would try to enter schools, but it was too early to tell whether large numbers of families are keeping their children home.

(With inputs from agencies)

Also Read: H-1B Visa Changes Take Effect: Higher Fees, No Multiple Filings; All You Need To Know