The US Embassy in India issued a stern warning on Tuesday about breaking US laws. This came as thousands of Indian H-1B and H-4 visa applicants struggle with huge delays in visa appointments. The embassy posted on its X handle: "If you break US law, you will be punished with significant criminal penalties. The Trump Administration is committed to ending illegal immigration to the United States and protecting our nation’s borders and our citizens." This warning, while not new, came at a tense time and angered many on social media. One user wrote, "Cancelling appointments at last moment and postponing it for 4 months is cruelty. You just want to display hostility to India one way or the other to appease racist MAGA base and draw more economic favors. We understand your game." Another asked, "Whom are you warning… ? Are you a Diplomatic mission or A Thug?" The visa delays are due to new social media checks started by the US Department of State on December 15. Visa applicants must now share all social media accounts used in the last five years on their DS-160 form. Visa officers review these before approving. This slow process led to fewer daily interviews and many rescheduling into next year. Many H-1B workers who went to India in December for visa stamping found their interviews postponed by six months or more. The Indian government has raised the issue with the US as thousands of workers remain stuck, risking their jobs since companies may not allow them to work from India. The US Embassy handles news and announcements from the Department of State but its recent message reflects the Trump administration’s hard line on illegal immigration.