Guwahati (Assam) [India], September 20 (ANI): Amid US President Donald Trump's decision to impose a USD 100,000 fee on the H-1B visa applications, Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi on Friday stated that if was unfortunate to see the Prime Minister Narendra Modi practicing the foreign policy of strategic silence, further stating that remaining silent was not helping the country.

Gogoi further stated that the 'draconian measure' was hurting not just the US, but also the biggest and brightest minds that powered the American innovation.

'...The recent decision of the US government has hurt and hit the aspirations of many of our best and brightest Indian minds...These are the minds that power American innovation, that transform their companies as CEOs...So, indirectly, the US is only hurting itself by taking this draconian measure...It's sad to see Prime Minister Modi practising this foreign policy of strategic silence. I don't think remaining silent is helping us...' Gogoi told ANI.

Citing the example of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, the Congress MP stated that PM Modi lacked the strength of the former PM, which had disturbed thousands of Indian minds.

'I remember Dr. Manmohan Singh, when one IFS officer was insulted in New York, the bold steps that he took in New Delhi resounded in the corridors of power in Washington, D.C. Today, not one diplomat, but thousands and thousands of Indian minds have been disturbed by the recent decision of the American government and unfortunately Prime Minister Modi is lacking the strength of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh,' he added.

Trump's order mandates companies to pay USD100,000 annually for H-1B visa petitions, aiming to curb perceived abuses and prioritise American workers. US President Donald Trump's residential proclamation titled 'Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers' imposed a USD 100,000 annual fee on H-1B visa applications.

Trump's order may impact Indians as they comprise about 70% of H-1B visa holders, making them significantly affected by this policy shift.

The steep fee may deter companies, especially smaller ones, from sponsoring foreign workers and could push Indian talent toward alternatives like Canada or Europe. (ANI)