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Under Operation Checkmate, being run by the Trump administration, strict measures are being taken against those entering the US without legal permission. In this context, the Transport Department has issued a new order, the purpose of which is to prevent those foreign nationals who do not meet the required eligibility standards from obtaining licenses to drive commercial trucks and buses.

Incidents of fatal road accidents involving commercial vehicles in various parts of America in recent months are also being said to be the main reason behind this step. The arrest of many Indian-origin truck drivers in these cases and the charges against them have made this issue more sensitive.

What is America’s Operation Checkmate?

America’s ‘Operation Checkmate’ is a federal security operation, the main objective of which is to catch people living in the US illegally who are driving commercial vehicles such as large trucks and buses. Under this, drivers living illegally are being identified and arrested and deported under immigration laws.

What is the new order of the Transport Department?

In the instructions issued by the US Department of Transportation, it has been made clear that now only those foreign citizens who fully meet all the legal and eligibility standards will be able to obtain a Commercial Driving License (CDL). The purpose of this order is to keep out of the system persons who are not documented or legally eligible, so as to strengthen road safety and prevent possible accidents.

Why was this step taken?

In recent months, there have been many fatal road accidents involving commercial vehicles in America. After these incidents, the administration has intensified the investigation process. In these cases, some truck drivers of Indian origin have also been arrested and serious charges have been leveled against them. Although each case is under investigation separately, these incidents have sparked a new debate on immigration and driving licensing policy.

What did American officials say?

US officials said that out of the 36 truck drivers arrested, at least 30 were Indian citizens. Apart from this, 6 were from Mexico, El Salvador and Russia. Some had commercial driver’s licenses issued by states such as California, New York, Washington and Virginia, while others reportedly had no valid driver’s license.