There are growing demands to abolish the OPT program, which initially provides employment for a few days to international students, including Indians, in the United States.
–Galla S Kiran Kumar, Bureau ChiefThe OPT program is actually used for temporary skill development. Under this, students with F-1 visas get the opportunity to work in the United States for three years if they complete a STEM degree. Critics often mention that this program is not authorized by the country’s Congress. Moreover, they accuse these students of competing for jobs with American students. It is described as a drain on the American job market.
The American Tech Workers Group is strongly opposed to this program. “OPT is a guest worker scheme. It is disguised as an internship for foreign students. Universities are selling work permits instead of education. Trump wants to end this OPT program to protect America and eliminate unfair competition for students here,” it said.
The Washington Alliance of Technology Workers has already taken the OPT to court in 2023, alleging that it is harming American workers. However, a lower court has upheld the program. On the other hand, some lawmakers are preparing to abolish the program itself. Indian students rely on the OPT program for professional opportunities and H1B visas.
