Hundreds of Indian H-1B visa holders who travelled home for the holidays now find themselves stranded, after US consulates abruptly cancelled visa renewal appointments. What was meant to be a short Christmas break has turned into months — even years — of uncertainty. As the Trump administration tightens screening and vetting rules, including deeper social media checks, families are split across continents and careers are put on hold. With India accounting for over 70% of H-1B holders, the impact is massive. Is this policy protecting America or punishing skilled workers?