Congress criticized Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, labeling him a ‘weak PM’ after the US imposed a $100,000 annual fee on H-1B visas for skilled workers. This contentious decision by the Trump administration, announced on Friday, raises concerns about its impact on India’s technology sector and its brightest minds.
Congress Responds to H-1B Visa Increase
The announcement came on Saturday, with Congress leaders, including president Mallikarjun Kharge, expressing serious concerns. They argue Modi’s preference for ‘strategic silence’ over effective foreign policy has weakened India’s position on the international stage.
Kharge emphasized, “Foreign policy is about safeguarding our national interests; keeping India First. It cannot be reduced to superficial bravado.” He highlighted the financial ramifications of the new H-1B visa fee, stating that it would hit Indian tech workers the hardest, given that 70% of H-1B visa recipients are from India.
Impact of H-1B Visa Fee on India
Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, echoed Kharge’s sentiments, referring to Modi as a weak leader in a recent post on X (formerly Twitter). He indicated that this hike could result in a staggering loss of Rs 2.17 lakh crore to India, reflecting the seriousness of the situation.
“The USD 100,000 annual fee on H-1B visas hits Indian tech workers the hardest,” Kharge stressed, explaining the implications of this new fee on the Indian economy and industry.
Strategic Silence: A Liability for India?
Congress leaders believe that Modi’s ‘strategic silence’ is detrimental to national interests. Gaurav Gogoi, Congress’s deputy leader in the Lok Sabha, remarked that the new visa decision is a blow to India’s most talented individuals in tech and business sectors.
“Modi’s preference for flashy optics and inaction is risky for our future,” Gogoi declared, referring to the stark contrast between Modi’s approach and that of former PM Manmohan Singh, who had shown decisiveness during diplomatic challenges.
Broader Implications and Concerns
Congress’s criticism extends beyond the H-1B visa fees. Kharge noted the HIRE Act targeting Indian outsourcing and termed the lifting of exemptions for the Chabahar port a “loss to our strategic interests.” This argument reflects a broader concern over Modi’s foreign policy effectiveness.
As Modi faces mounting criticism, the Congress party is utilizing this moment to question his diplomatic strategies. With statistics indicating that the fee increase could have a ripple effect on the tech sector, they argue these decisions complicate India’s global economic relationships.
Critics highlight that while Modi was able to organize high-profile meetings and events, substantial actions that would safeguard Indian interests seem lacking. “Birthday return gifts from your ‘Abki Baar, Trump Sarkar’ government!” Kharge noted sarcastically.
The Future of Skilled Workers Amidst New Policies
US President Trump justified the new visa fee by asserting that abuse of the H-1B program poses a national security threat. He stated the program has been used to replace, instead of supplement, American workers.
Under these policies, India finds itself at a crossroads, where its tech industry and skilled workforce could face significant challenges. The increased fees serve as a stark warning for skilled workers seeking employment in the US.
As this issue develops, Indian stakeholders are anxious about how these restrictions will reshape immigration for tech professionals. The emphasis now lies on whether India can adjust its foreign policy to better protect its nationals amidst evolving global immigration patterns.
The H-1B visa discussions reveal the fine line between immigration policy and international relations, highlighting the pressing need for firm diplomatic strategies to defend India’s tech industry and workforce.
In summary, the Congress’s sharp critique of PM Modi over the H-1B visa fee increase brings much-needed attention to the implications of foreign policy decisions on India’s economic and strategic interests.
