Vembu, who stepped down as Zoho’s CEO last year, posted on X on Oct 23, 2026 that he harbours no hatred toward racists who have amplified online hate against Indians, Hindus and Indian‑Americans.
He answered U.S. investor Eric Weinstein’s plea for quiet, saying the rising hate is a mirror that reflects India’s own shortcomings. "Until India develops, based on the talents of our own people, we will not find true respect in the world," Vembu wrote, urging the nation to build rather than retaliate.
The founder’s remarks arrive as the Trump administration bars eight Indian IT firms—including Microsoft, Tata, Wipro and Infosys—from the PERM green‑card pathway, a key step for Indian workers in the U.S. Vembu urged Indians abroad to return home and contribute to the nation’s growth.
Vembu’s message, circulated across social media, was met with a mix of support and skepticism; some Indian expatriates praised his call to action, while others questioned whether returning would solve the deeper migration challenges.
The call for return and development is now a point of debate in Indian political circles, with policymakers saying the U.S. restrictions could spur domestic investment. The next week, the Ministry of External Affairs is slated to brief the Indian diaspora on potential incentives for returnees.