Call to Action for US Visa Policy
Harsimrat Kaur Badal, a leader of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and Member of Parliament from Bathinda, made an appeal to Union External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar regarding the cessation of work visas for foreign truck drivers in the United States. This decision follows a tragic incident involving a Punjabi truck driver.
Concerns for Punjabi Truck Drivers
In her letter to the minister, Harsimrat expressed concerns that this decision may compel numerous Punjabis working in the trucking sector to leave the United States. She highlighted that approximately 150,000 Punjabi and Sikh drivers represent 20% of the US trucking industry. Any widespread action against these drivers could negatively impact their families and be seen as discriminatory, given that Punjabis have been instrumental in establishing and maintaining trucking logistics over many years.
Highlighting the Role of the Punjabi Community
Harsimrat urged the External Affairs Minister to communicate to the US government the important contributions of the Punjabi community in fulfilling the high demand for truck drivers. Their involvement has significantly alleviated the driver shortage crisis affecting American consumers and the economy. She emphasized that a single driver’s mistake leading to a fatal accident should not be a reason to penalize an entire community.
Access to Legal Support for Arrested Driver
The MP also asked the minister to facilitate consular access to Harjinder Singh, who has been charged with three counts of vehicular homicide, to ensure proper representation in his case.
Proposal for Language Proficiency Improvements
In addition, Harsimrat suggested that the minister advocate for foreign drivers, including Punjabis, to be granted additional time to improve their English language skills to meet necessary standards. She insisted that those who do not pass proficiency tests should be allowed to retake them so as not to lose their livelihoods entirely.
Conclusion
Through her appeal, Harsimrat Kaur Badal emphasized the critical role of Punjabi drivers in the US economy and underscored the need for fair treatment and support for the community in light of recent challenges.
