In a recent turn of events, Congress leaders have sharply criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the U.S. announced a USD 100,000 annual fee on H-1B visas for skilled workers. The Congress party claims Modi’s lack of strong foreign policy has jeopardized India’s interests, particularly in the tech sector, raising concerns about future impacts on Indian workers.
Congress Slams Modi as ‘Weak PM’
Following the U.S. government’s decision to increase H-1B visa fees, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge stated that Prime Minister Modi is a “weak PM.” He emphasized the importance of prioritizing India’s interests rather than engaging in what he described as mere “strategic silence” and “loud optics.” Kharge’s remarks highlight a growing frustration with Modi’s foreign policy approach.
Implications for Indian Workers
Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, have voiced concerns about how the new fee structure will disproportionately affect Indian tech workers. Gandhi tweeted, “I repeat, India has a weak PM.” This statement is particularly poignant, as approximately 70% of H-1B visa holders are Indians, and this visa program is crucial for skilled labor mobility.
Congress Chief Kharge further elaborated on the repercussions, stating, “The recent increase in the H-1B visa fee creates significant financial burdens on Indian professionals. With 50% tariffs already imposed, the estimated loss to India in various sectors could amount to Rs 2.17 lakh crore.”
Criticism of Modi’s Foreign Policy
Kharge criticized Modi’s style of international diplomacy, declaring, “Bear hugs and hollow slogans are not a substitute for substantive foreign policy.” He argued that actual diplomacy should focus on protecting national interests rather than creating superficial alliances that may risk India’s longer-term standing in the global arena.
In response to Trump’s proclamation, Congress Deputy Leader in the Lok Sabha Gaurav Gogoi reflected on the importance of a robust foreign policy. He said, “Under former PM Manmohan Singh, India took a strong stance even in difficult situations. Now, Modi’s inclination towards silence and optics is detrimental to India.”
Long-Term Effects on India-U.S. Relations
The recent visa fee increase has raised questions about India-U.S. relations and the future of Indian professionals hoping to work in America. Trump’s statements, which label the H-1B program as a national security threat, highlight a critical shift in U.S. immigration policy that many fear could impact Indian innovation and workforce diversity.
Currently, the H-1B visa program is pivotal for many Indian tech professionals. With the new fee structure, the future of countless workers hangs in the balance. As Trump pushes to tighten immigration laws, Congress is wary of how these changes could alter the competitive landscape for skilled workers worldwide.
Voices from Congress
In a show of unity, various Congress leaders expressed their dissatisfaction with Modi’s handling of foreign policy. Pawan Khera remarked, “Eight years later, Rahul Gandhi is vindicated yet again,” referring to Gandhi’s predictions that issues like the H-1B visa would become focal points in Modi’s administration. Khera pointed to past discussions between Modi and Trump that overlooked these critical issues.
As the debate continues, Congress leaders are calling for a re-evaluation of Modi’s strategic approaches to ensure that India’s interests are prioritized on the global stage. With heightened attention on immigration policies, the future remains uncertain for many Indian workers hoping to secure employment in the U.S.
In light of these developments, both political analysts and Congress leaders stress the necessity for Modi to assert a more proactive role in negotiating favorable conditions for Indian workers in the face of U.S. policy changes.
