U.S. H-1B Visa Fee Hike Sparks Indian Political Backlash

The U.S. decision to impose a $100,000 fee on H-1B visa applications has drawn sharp criticisms from Indian Congress leaders, who warn it could strain bilateral relations and isolate America. They argue the move will harm both American businesses reliant on Indian talent and India's burgeoning workforce.

The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has put forward a new policy imposing a $100,000 fee on H-1B visa applications, a move intended to curb alleged abuses of the program. The policy, set to take effect on September 21, 2023, has sparked vocal criticism from Indian political leaders, who fear it may adversely affect diplomatic ties and both nations' economic interests.

Prominent Indian politicians, including Congress leaders Pawan Kumar Bansal and Manish Tewari, have openly condemned the decision. Bansal highlighted the crucial role of the H-1B program in sustaining American industries, citing that Indian professionals are pivotal in fields like IT, engineering, and medicine. "In the long run, it will harm America too," Bansal asserted.

The measure, they contend, undermines the India-U.S. relationship by systematically isolating India on the international stage. Tewari criticized what he perceives as a deliberate diplomatic shift towards Pakistan, cautioning that such moves do not augur well for bilateral cooperation. Meanwhile, Congress leader Pawan Khera accentuated domestic criticisms against Indian PM Narendra Modi for inadequate responses to these developments.

(With inputs from agencies.)