Rising Crime Among Indians in the US: A Struggle for Survival

Indians in the USA have long been seen as a peaceful community, rarely appearing in crime news. However, recently, Indian names are increasingly linked to crime stories. Experts cite various reasons for this shift. One expert highlighted the growing number of Indian immigrants, including students and H-1B visa holders, facing fewer opportunities than before. This scarcity leads some to resort to petty crimes like shoplifting for survival.

Another expert pointed out that stricter law enforcement has made it harder for students to rely on part-time jobs. Parents in India send them Rs 1.5 lakhs to Rs 2 lakhs, but some students still turn to crime rackets like phishing to ease financial pressure on their families. Once caught, they face jail time and deportation.

Challenges Faced by Indian Immigrants

The cost of living has surged since the pandemic, making it difficult for many to make ends meet even with discreet jobs paying a few dollars per hour. This financial strain pushes some into petty crimes for survival. A consultant described the current job market as dire, with few openings and even fewer interview calls. An H-1B employee lost his job in January and applied to over 150 companies without receiving a single interview call in six months.

Some individuals live with fake green cards for years. When asked why they take such risks, one respondent explained that if their fake card is detected, they face deportation. Without any card, deportation is certain. Thus, holding a fake card offers a chance to stay longer if it's not discovered.

Financial Pressures and Desperation

Many Indian students take loans in India before coming to the USA. Returning home without a job isn't an option as only earning dollars can help clear their debts and secure their future. Students hope companies hire them long enough to pay off education loans so they can return debt-free.

The situation is challenging for Indians arriving in the USA with dreams of building better lives. It's crucial for students and H-1B visa holders who lose jobs not to engage in crime, as this leads to severe imprisonment followed by deportation.