India’s Congress Critiques Modi Over H-1B Visa Policy
In light of the recent $100,000 annual fee imposed by the U.S. on H-1B visas, India’s Congress party openly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The party labeled him a ‘weak PM’ during statements made on Saturday, underscoring a significant concern for India’s national interests and its impact on Indian tech professionals.
Congress Leaders Speak Out
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his discontent, stating that foreign policy should prioritize India’s interests. He exclaimed, “It’s not about events; it’s about keeping India First.”
Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, echoed these sentiments, reiterating his stance that India has a weak Prime Minister. He warned that this fee hike would hit Indians the hardest, as they represent about 70% of H-1B visa holders in the United States.
Impact of the H-1B Visa Fee Increase
The Congress party highlighted that the fee hike might cause a financial burden amounting to ₹2.17 Lakh crore across various sectors in India. Kharge pointed out that, despite the supposed friendship between Modi and Trump, the outcome of such policies severely undermines India’s economic interests.
He stated that birthday ‘return gifts’ from Trump’s administration are hurting Indian tech workers—a metaphor revealing the discontent with how diplomacy has been handled. These rising fees, he suggested, indicate a shift in the U.S.’s approach toward skilled immigration, which will adversely impact India’s top talents.
Congress Accuses Modi of Strategic Silence
Congress deputy leader Gaurav Gogoi also weighed in on the issue. He reminisced about the boldness of past Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s responses to diplomatic insults, contrasting it with PM Modi’s so-called strategic silence. Gogoi claimed that this silence has turned into a liability for India’s national interest.
As the discourse escalates, Congress leaders continue to use social media to draw attention to failed diplomatic negotiations. Pawan Khera, another Congress leader, pointed out that Rahul Gandhi warned about complications related to H-1B visas back in 2017, affirming that the situation remains unchanged under Modi’s leadership.
Trump’s H-1B Immigration Policy Explained
On Friday, U.S. President Trump signed a proclamation imposing a hefty fee for H-1B visas, reinforcing his administration’s tough stance on immigration. Trump stated that abuse of the H-1B visa program poses a national security threat, claiming it has been exploited to replace American workers.
The H-1B visa program allows U.S. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations, primarily in technology and engineering sectors. Trump’s announcement to hike fees aligns with broader efforts to restrict immigration and protect American job markets.
With reports detailing that this new measure will predominantly affect Indian tech professionals, the Congress party’s outcry reflects their concerns for domestic job protection and the importance of prioritizing India’s sovereignty in international relations.
Conclusion: The Future of India’s Tech Workforce
The increasing fees tied to H-1B visas raise questions about the future of India’s brightest minds looking to explore opportunities in the USA. As the discourse between Congress and the Modi administration intensifies, the underlying worry about the national interest remains at the forefront.
Many are wondering how India will redefine its foreign policy to ensure the preservation of its citizens’ opportunities abroad. As voices from the Congress party demand accountability from the Prime Minister, this situation may serve as a turning point in the relationship between India and the U.S. Here’s hoping that Indian interests will remain protected in the global job market.
