Congress slams Modi over Trump’s H-1B visa fee hike, calls him a “weak PM”
New Delhi: Indian National Congress has strongly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the US imposed a hefty USD 100,000 annual fee on H-1B visas for highly skilled workers, a move expected to hit Indian tech professionals the hardest.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, in a statement, said that Modi is a “weak PM” whose focus on “strategic silence” and “loud optics” has harmed India’s national interests.
He emphasized that foreign policy should prioritize “India First” and safeguard the nation’s interests, not revolve around superficial events or slogans. “Bear hugs, hollow slogans, and concerts are not foreign policy,” he said, criticizing Modi’s approach to international relations.
Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, also weighing in, posted on X, calling out the Indian prime minister’s weakness: “I repeat, India has a weak PM.” He also pointed out that 70% of H-1B visa holders are Indians, highlighting the significant financial losses India stands to face due to the visa hike.
Kharge further slammed Modi, sarcastically referring to the “birthday return gifts” from the Trump administration, including the visa fee hike and the recent tariff threats. He also criticized the lifting of the Chabahar port exemption, calling it a blow to India’s strategic interests.
“Modi’s foreign policy is about optics, not substance,” Kharge said, urging Modi to shift focus back to India’s long-term interests.
The new US policy, signed by President Donald Trump on Friday, raises the H-1B visa fee to USD 100,000 annually. Trump cited national security concerns, claiming that abuse of the H-1B program is a threat.
