Hours before U.S. President Donald Trump is scheduled to land in India , the Congress on Sunday asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi if he will seek a clarification on the restrictive H-1B visa policy of the American government and question the U.S. decision to sign a deal with Taliban.
Posing a series of questions on Twitter and a video message, Congress’s communication in-charge Randeep Surjewala asked why Mr. Modi was silent about “India First” even as Mr. Trump continues to talk about “America First.”
Mr. Surjewala pointed out that the Trump government’s restrictive immigration policies have hit H-1B visas. Indians usually get 70% of 85,000 H-1B Visas. Now, the rejection rate for India has increased from 6% in 2015 to 24% in 2019, especially for IT professionals. “Will PM Modi ask for easing of H-1B visas?” he asked.
IC 814 hijacking
The Congress also questioned the government’s mute response to U.S.-Taliban deal scheduled to be signed on February 29. “What about India’s red lines. Have we forgotten the IC 814 hijacking and release of terrorist Masood Azhar in Kandahar. Azhar led Jaish-e-Mohammad then attacked Parliament and Pulwama? As gala bash unfolds, will Modi ji raise our national security concerns?” he asked.
GSP list
The Congress demanded to know if the Modi government will raise the issue of removing India from duty-free imports or Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) list. India had been on this list since 1974. It has affected the $5.6 billion Indian exports to the U.S., especially gems, jewellery, rice and leather. “Post ‘Howdy Modi’ and ‘Namaste Trump’ gala events, Will PM ensure restoration of GSP status?” Mr. Surjewala asked.
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The Congress also put the blame of increased oil prices at U.S.’s doors, thanks to Iran sanctions. India till 2018 used to buy 250 crore tonnes of crude oil each month from Iran. Mr. Surjewala asked if Mr. Modi will find time during Mr. Trump’s visit to secure cheaper oil for India.
Steel exports
Mr. Surjewala also raised the issue of steep fall in India’s steel exports to the U.S. that have fallen by 50% due to the hike in import tariffs by nearly 25%.
“As India commits to $3 billion defence purchases, why zero relief for India’s export of steel?” he asked.
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