A Telugu software engineer working on an H-1B has taken his US employer to court. He has accused the company of forced labour, wage theft, and caste bias. His case has drawn attention for highlighting the risks many workers face while chasing the American dream.
Engineer Claims Forced Work and Threats
Amrutesh Vallabhaneni went to the US in 2015 on an F-1 visa. His lawsuit states that his problems began in 2018 after joining Siri Software Solutions. He says he was pushed into debt and felt trapped under continuous pressure.
Allegations of H-1B Misuse and Financial Abuse
He claims the company promised an H-1B and a green card but used them as a trap. For six months, he was asked to pay his own salary during bench time. He says he obeyed out of fear that the company would cancel his H-1B.
Caste Bias Claim Against Company CEO
The lawsuit also alleges that the CEO, Pavan Tata, brought caste politics into the workplace. Vallabhaneni says he was treated unfairly because of this. He claims he felt powerless to question any behaviour due to the risk of deportation.
Strain on Health, Rent, and Daily Life
The financial stress affected him and his wife. They struggled to pay rent and get proper healthcare. At one point, he could not treat a serious leg injury due to a lapse in health insurance.
Lawsuit Cites Labour and Trafficking Violations
The suit mentions violations of US labour laws, trafficking rules, and H-1B regulations. A labour trafficking expert compared his ordeal to Squid Game. The expert stated that vulnerable workers often feel exploited by those in power.
Case Could Impact Many H-1B Workers
This case is seen as one of many similar stories. Many Indian workers feel they must bear long hours and harsh conditions to stay employed. The H-1B system helps many people, but the lawsuit claims it becomes a weapon in the wrong hands.
Company Yet to Respond
Siri Software has not issued a public response. The case is in early stages. If Vallabhaneni wins, it may encourage more H-1B workers facing abuse to speak up.
