‘Unwarranted, deeply offensive’: MEA hits back at US Vice President’s remarks, PERM suspension

India has responded to the US Department of Labor’s decision concerning the Permanent Labor Certification (PERM) programme for certain companies, clarifying that the suspension does not, by itself, affect the validity of H-1B visas or the status of H-1B visa holders and their dependents. However, it could affect the green card process for eligible employees of the companies concerned. Responding to remarks by the US Vice President about Indian professionals, Jaiswal called the descriptions “unwarranted” and “deeply offensive”, defending the contribution of Indian talent to the American economy and innovation ecosystem.