India Calls JD Vance’s Remark Offensive Amid US IT Firm Suspensions
India has criticised the US decision to suspend eight IT firms from the PERM green card sponsorship programme, saying the move does not support the shared goals of both countries. The Ministry of External Affairs also called US Vice President JD Vance’s description of foreign H-1B workers as “foreign indentured servants” deeply offensive.
The suspended companies include Microsoft, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Infosys and Wipro. The PERM programme allows eligible US employers to sponsor foreign workers for permanent residency.
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India Says PERM Suspension Does Not Cancel H-1B Visas
The Ministry of External Affairs clarified that the PERM programme is separate from the H-1B visa system. Therefore, suspending PERM applications does not automatically affect existing H-1B visas or the immigration status of visa holders and their dependents. However, the move could affect eligible employees’ green card applications.
India emphasised that skilled professionals contribute to both economies through innovation, research, productivity and job creation. It urged stakeholders to recognise the mutual benefits of talent mobility.
India Objects to JD Vance’s Remarks
Responding to Vance’s description of foreign workers, the MEA said the terminology was inappropriate and carried painful historical and colonial associations.
India also highlighted the contributions of highly educated Indian professionals to the US economy and innovation sector, noting that generations of immigrants have helped shape America’s growth and prosperity.
IT Companies Respond to the US Decision
TCS said it does not expect a significant impact on its operations or client engagements. The company added that it prioritises local hiring in the US and plans to recruit 15,000 people there over the next five years.
Microsoft said most of its US employees are American citizens and stated that its H-1B employees are paid comparably to other employees performing similar work.
Industry body Nasscom said the PERM decision affects a specific immigration pathway and should not be confused with the broader issue of skilled talent mobility. It added that Indian technology companies have expanded local hiring in the US and continue to comply with applicable laws and regulations.
US Tightens Scrutiny of Foreign Worker Programmes
The decision comes amid increased US scrutiny of employment-based immigration programmes. Authorities have investigated alleged misuse of H-1B and PERM systems, including claims involving wage undercutting, fraudulent applications and the displacement of American workers.
The latest move has raised concerns for Indian technology companies and professionals seeking permanent residency in the US, although its impact will depend on the scope of the suspensions and individual circumstances.
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