US President Donald Trump’s recent social media post criticizing India as a “hellhole” has sparked outrage. The comments precede an upcoming visit next month by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Trump posted on Wednesday that the US grants citizenship to anyone born in the country, but accused Indian immigrants of not hiring native-born Americans and suggested they lack English proficiency.
Indian foreign ministry spokesman Randhir Jaiswal called Trump’s remarks “inappropriate” and said they do not reflect the reality of India-US relations, which are based on mutual respect.
Congressman Ami Bera, whose parents are Indian immigrants, also condemned Trump’s post as offensive and ignorant. The Hindu American Foundation described it as a hateful and racist screed.
Trump has long advocated for stricter immigration policies and imposed tariffs on India after disagreements over mediation in the India-Pakistan conflict. His remarks contrast with decades of efforts by US presidents to build relations with India, seen as a counterweight to China.