Hyderabad, Oct. 9: India has strongly objected to US Vice President JD Vance’s description of foreign workers as “indentured servants,” calling his remarks deeply offensive and defending the contribution of Indian professionals to the American economy.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued its response on Friday, October 9, following US restrictions on the Permanent Labour Certification (PERM) programme for several technology companies. India said skilled migration benefits both countries through innovation, productivity, competitiveness and job creation.
The ministry also noted that generations of immigrants have helped shape the United States. It said restrictions on skilled talent mobility do not advance the shared ambitions of India and the US.
India Objects To JD Vance’s Remarks | PERM Restrictions Could Affect Green Card Applications
The US administration has suspended PERM applications involving Microsoft and several other technology companies, including major Indian IT firms.
The programme is an important step in the employment based green card process.
Vance accused Microsoft of laying off 6,000 American workers while benefiting from 6,300 H-1B visas and nearly 3,000 green cards.
He alleged that the company’s practices disadvantaged American workers and announced the suspension of its participation in the PERM programme. These figures and allegations were presented by Vance.
India clarified that PERM is separate from the H-1B visa programme. The suspension does not, by itself, affect the validity of existing H-1B visas or the status of their holders and dependents. However, eligible employees of affected companies could face disruptions to their green card applications.
The MEA said Indian professionals contribute to US research, innovation and economic growth. It called for recognition of the mutual benefits of skilled migration as both countries navigate the latest restrictions.
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