The Indian government is closely monitoring the backlash against H-1B visa holders in the United States, particularly following the recent appointment of Chennai-born Sriram Krishnan as Senior White House Policy Advisor on AI. With growing concerns over possible profiling of Indian IT and management professionals, various government agencies, including the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of IT, are actively observing the situation to prevent any potential issues affecting those who are legally employed.
According to sources from the Indian government, the situation is being monitored closely, as officials make it clear, "We shouldn't have a situation where there is an unpleasant issue which is created for our Indian workers who are (working) there legally. That is something the government is constantly concerned about," reported by The Times of India.
The government is not only keeping watch on the current developments but is also engaging with major software companies and relevant industry associations such as Nasscom to gauge the ground realities faced by Indian professionals. By doing so, they aim to safeguard India’s competitive stance within the global tech arena, reinforcing the message, "We would like to make sure our competitive position is not affected. And definitely, other factors should not come in the way of legal frameworks, even from an American setup," according to the sources.
The dynamics of U.S. visa policies are also under scrutiny, especially with Donald Trump returning to the White House. The government is cautious and intends to avoid viewing the situation merely as increased restrictions. A government source articulated this perspective, stating, "So to the extent, we don't want to look at it as more restrictions and so on. We have to look at it as how the American policy also pans out." This reflects the broader strategy of anticipating how U.S. policies will evolve, impacting IT, tech, management, and other qualified professionals.
Another important aspect the Indian government wishes to highlight is the growing trend of multinational companies establishing Global Capability Centres (GCCs) within India. This is seen as evidence of the demand for skilled Indian professionals capable of contributing to innovative and advanced working environments. The fact these centers are being set up indicates multinational firms' intent to hire qualified Indian workers for cutting-edge work.
The government remains committed to receiving regular updates from its mission in the U.S. to stay informed on developments affecting its workers. These proactive measures reveal the government's dedication to addressing any backlash against H-1B visa holders, particularly as tensions have increased following Loomer’s public criticisms of Krishnan's appointment. Loomer has voiced allegations claiming H-1B visa holders are taking away jobs from qualified Americans, countering the 'America First' stance promoted by the Republican administration.
This public outcry drew responses not only from government sources but also from high-profile figures. Notably, former President Trump defended the H-1B program, stating, "I've always liked the visas, I have always been in favour of the visas. That's why we have them... I have many H-1B visas on my properties. I've been a believer in H-1B. I have used it many times. It's a great program," as reported by The New York Post.
While the backlash and challenges present uncertainty for Indian professionals working under H-1B visas, the Indian government remains vigilant. With continuous engagement with U.S. policymakers and stakeholders, the focus will be on ensuring fair treatment for Indian workers and preserving their rights within the complex framework of international employment and immigration law. The government’s commitment signals a broader intent to navigate these challenges diplomatically, signaling endurance and adaptability amid changing political landscapes.