At a naturalization ceremony in Indianapolis on March 14, 2024, several applicants were denied the opportunity to take the oath of citizenship due to enhanced screening procedures implemented by federal officials. Originally expected to welcome 100 new citizens, only 83 individuals completed the naturalization process, leaving several reserved seats unfilled. This incident highlights the ongoing scrutiny faced by applicants from nations deemed “high-risk” by the Department of Homeland Security.
The ceremony, which should have marked a significant milestone for many, turned into a disappointing event for those turned away. Kate Sweeney Bell, who witnessed the situation, described one man who was sent away as “blindsided.” He arrived prepared with documentation, only to be informed that he could not proceed with the ceremony. Another individual, who spoke to the Scripps News Group, mentioned receiving a phone call about the ceremony’s cancellation but remained unaware of the reasons behind it.
One of the applicants denied entry was a citizen from Niger, a country listed among those categorized as high-risk by the Department of Homeland Security. A spokesperson for the agency confirmed that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has paused adjudications for individuals from these countries to ensure a thorough vetting process. This statement echoes a similar situation that occurred on December 9, 2023, when over 30 applicants were also turned away.
According to the spokesperson, “The safety of the American people always comes first, and the pause will ensure additional screening for each person.” These measures reflect the administration’s intensified focus on immigration policy.
For those who successfully became U.S. citizens, the moment was particularly meaningful after lengthy journeys through the immigration process. Siddharth Bose, who achieved citizenship at the ceremony, shared his story of perseverance. “My journey here started 30 years ago — a lot of paperwork, a lot of specific understanding of what you have to do,” Bose stated. He emphasized the emotional weight of being turned away at such a critical juncture, saying, “It would be incredibly hard to find out it might not happen now.”
Bose’s achievement was especially significant for his family. “It means the world. My family, kids and wife are here, parents are here. I’ve been an immigrant in two countries. It’s finally great to call some place home, especially the U.S.,” he added.
Another new citizen, Satnam Singh, expressed his excitement, stating, “I’m really happy. Finally, I got my citizenship after a long time. I’m so happy.” The ceremony for these new citizens contrasted sharply with the experiences of those turned away, underscoring the emotional stakes involved in the naturalization process.
The ongoing policies of the Trump administration continue to affect immigration practices. Reports indicate that USCIS aims to increase litigation on denaturalization cases and has imposed entry restrictions on immigrants from 19 countries, primarily in the Middle East and Africa.
As the immigration landscape evolves, the experiences of individuals at events like this ceremony serve as a poignant reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by those seeking a new life in the United States.
