Indian academic calls for end to H-1B 'indentured servitude' model

An Indian academic and university co-founder has publicly questioned the H-1B visa programme's structure, arguing that the system relies on what amounts to indentured servitude rather than genuine professional opportunity.

Speaking from personal experience, the co-founder recalled being hired by Amazon under the H-1B visa scheme, which allows US companies to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations. The comments underscore longstanding criticism from Indian professionals about the conditions attached to these visas, including employer sponsorship requirements and mobility restrictions.

The remarks come amid broader debate in the United States over immigration policy and foreign worker programmes. Advocates for reform argue that H-1B visas can limit employee bargaining power and create dependency relationships, while supporters maintain the programme fills genuine skill gaps in the American workforce.

Thousands of Indian professionals work in the United States on H-1B visas annually, primarily in technology and professional services sectors. The visa's reliance on employer sponsorship has long been a contentious issue, with critics arguing it can disadvantage foreign workers compared to their American counterparts.

The co-founder's comments reflect growing calls from within India's professional class for more equitable international employment arrangements and greater scrutiny of visa programmes that may restrict worker mobility and rights.