U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio faces questions in India after remarks he made while addressing concerns about racism and bigoted rhetoric toward Indians in the United States. Multiple outlets report that when confronted about anti-Indian racism, Rubio responds with a characterization that such comments come from “stupid people,” adding that every country has individuals who make offensive statements. At the same time, he says concerns about racism must be taken seriously and that isolated remarks should not be treated as representative of American society overall.

In related coverage, Rubio also discusses U.S. immigration policy, including steps to modernize the migration system. He indicates that changes in immigration policy are not “India-specific,” suggesting that adjustments apply more broadly rather than targeting Indians as a group. The reporting frames Rubio’s comments as an attempt to address discrimination concerns while distinguishing individual behavior from national character and policy. The outlets agree that the controversy centers on his language in response to criticism about racism affecting Indians in the U.S.