A controversial audio recording has gone viral on social media platform X, making explosive claims about hiring practices at an Indian restaurant in Frisco, Texas. The unverified audio alleges that the establishment, identified as Bollywood Pizza House, is hiring exclusively F-1 visa students and compensating them only through cash payments or the digital payment service Zelle.
Origin of the Viral Claim
The claim originated from Carlos Turcios, who identifies himself as a part-time staff member of the Texas State Guard and a member of the GOP executive committee for Tarrant County in Texas. Turcios shared the audio recording along with inflammatory commentary, stating, "What on earth is going on in Frisco, Texas? Stop the third-world invasion!!!" His post quickly gained traction, with numerous other social media accounts amplifying the same content and echoing calls to end what they termed an 'Indian invasion' of Texas.
Details from the Controversial Audio
In the audio recording, a man can be heard calling a restaurant number that was advertised as seeking employees. The woman who answers confirms it is an Indian restaurant located in Frisco that is currently hiring. During the conversation, she asks the caller about his location and background. When the man reveals he is on a student visa, the woman proceeds to ask which college he attends, mentioning that she currently has employees from the University of North Texas.
The woman identifies the restaurant as 'Bollywood Pizza House' and invites the caller to meet in person. She also inquires about when his academic course is scheduled to end. The audio has not been independently verified by any official sources, and there is no confirmation regarding the authenticity of the claims made within it.
Political Context in Texas
The viral claim emerges against a backdrop of heightened political tension surrounding immigration and employment practices in Texas. The concept of a 'Texas takeover' by Muslims and Indians has become a significant talking point in state politics recently. Texas Governor Greg Abbott recently announced a ban on H-1B visa hiring within state agencies and universities under his jurisdiction.
Additionally, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated investigations into three companies that previously hired H-1B visa holders, requesting detailed information about these employees. While allegations of H-1B visa abuses in Texas are not new, the current crackdown gained momentum after Texas journalist Sara Gonzales visited official addresses of H-1B employers and reportedly found no offices or employees present at those locations.
Legal Restrictions on F-1 Student Employment
According to U.S. immigration regulations, F-1 students face strict limitations on employment:
- They are permitted to work only at on-campus cafeterias for up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions
- They may work full-time during scheduled breaks and holidays
- F-1 students cannot work off-campus during their first academic year
- After completing their first year, they may work off-campus only in positions directly related to their field of study
The viral audio's claims, if true, would represent significant violations of these employment restrictions for F-1 visa holders. The allegations have sparked widespread discussion about immigration enforcement, employment practices, and political rhetoric in Texas, though the specific claims about Bollywood Pizza House remain unverified by official sources.
