President Donald Trump has imposed an annual fee of $100,000 on the H-1B visa applications, disproportionately affecting Indian nationals. In response to this decision, AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi has criticized India's foreign policy stance. According to Owaisi, Trump has almost dismantled the H-1B visa system which was mostly beneficial for Indians, especially those from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, who will face the greatest repercussions.
On social media platform X, Owaisi noted that approximately 71-72% of H-1B visas are awarded to Indians. The states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh benefit the most, with the average annual salary for Indian H-1B holders around $120,000, primarily in the tech sector. These earnings become a crucial source of income for their families back in India, significantly contributing to the country's $125 billion annual remittance inflow. In Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Indian NRI deposits comprise 37% of the total.
Owaisi expressed his disatisfaction not with Trump, but with the government's handling, questioning the tangible benefits of events like 'Howdy Modi' and 'Namaste Trump.' Gatherings of Indian diaspora in places like Madison Square Garden have shown limited success. Birthday wishes are not indicative of foreign policy achievements. Removing the H-1B visa seems to target Indians specifically. By jeopardizing its relationship with India, the US conveys a lack of interest in our strategic value. We are strategic partners, and if they don't acknowledge our alliance, this reflects the government's failure.
'Isolated on the Global Stage'
The AIMIM leader stated that recent US actions towards India, including heavy tariffs, the US-Pakistan trade deal, and the Pakistan-Saudi Arabia agreement (which couldn't occur without US consent), show India's precarious position on the world stage. Our neighboring country poses a threat, and we seem increasingly isolated globally.
'India Needs to Boost Rupee-Based Trade'
Owaisi mentioned that India has negotiated to settle transactions with over 18 nations, including Qatar and ASEAN countries, in rupees instead of dollars. This practice should extend to all major trade partners, resisting Trump's pressure entirely.
'Why India Faces Challenges in Foreign Policy'
He added that it's not a happy observation but a necessary one for the government to reflect on why India struggles so much in foreign policy and national security. Could it be because these issues are merely façades? Ultimately, it's not Prime Minister Modi but the common Indians who bear the brunt of these policies.
