Following the United States' decision to impose a $100,000 annual fee on H-1B visas, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has strongly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him a "weak PM". This sharp rebuke comes in response to former US President Donald Trump's order, which is expected to significantly impact Indian tech professionals, who constitute a large percentage of H-1B visa holders.

Gandhi shared a news report on X (formerly Twitter), reiterating his stance by stating, "I repeat, India has a weak PM". He also referenced a similar comment he made in 2017 when H-1B visa concerns were not discussed between PM Modi and then-President Trump, highlighting the recurring nature of the issue.

Other Congress leaders have also joined in criticizing PM Modi's handling of the situation. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge accused PM Modi of reducing foreign policy to "bear hugs, hollow slogans and loud optics," arguing that such theatrics have failed to protect India's national interests. Kharge also pointed out that 70% of H-1B visa holders are Indian and warned that the new fee would severely impact the country's tech workforce. He further took a jibe at Modi's recent call with former US President Donald Trump, stating, "Indians are pained by the return gifts you have received after the birthday call," listing the $100,000 annual fee on H-1B visas as one such unwelcome gift.

Congress deputy leader in the Lok Sabha, Gaurav Gogoi, compared PM Modi's approach to that of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, recalling Singh's firm response during a past diplomatic row. Gogoi alleged that PM Modi's "strategic silence and loud optics" have become a liability for India's national interest and its citizens.

AICC spokesperson Pawan Khera asserted that Rahul Gandhi's earlier warnings on the H-1B issue have been vindicated. He shared Gandhi's 2017 post, which included media reports indicating that the H-1B visa issue was absent from discussions between Trump and Modi. Khera stated, "He called it out back in 2017 and nothing has changed. India is still stuck with a weak Prime Minister".

The H-1B visa program allows companies to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialized occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. The US government's decision to increase the H-1B visa fee is part of a broader effort to crack down on immigration and protect American workers. Former President Trump had previously stated that abuse of the H-1B program poses a national security threat.