Hubli: US Consulate General of South India Dr Richard D Haynes today (Feb 14, 2004) dismissed concerns among the Indian industry of a backlash in the United States against outsourcing technology work to India and termed the present outcry as a "temporary phase".

"The present resistance is a temporary phase and I see no reason for your concern (of a backlash) in this matter," Haynes said during his interaction with members of the Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry (KCCI).

"It is true that there is a lot of controversy in the US (on outsourcing), but practically and looking at the high potential, quality of work and economics, outsourcing to Indian companies would probably continue," Haynes said.

Asked by a member on the reasons why US is not allowing Indian accounting firms access to markets in the US, as done by India to the big five global accounting firms, he said, "I do agree that Indian firms are competitive on par with any of the world's leaders, but as it is a US Government policy, the issue should be addressed bilaterally.