The appointment of Indian-origin entrepreneur Sriram Krishnan to a key AI advisory role in the incoming Trump administration has sparked significant controversy. Elon Musk has supported the appointment and advocated for increased immigration to address the shortage of skilled tech workers in the country. A recent post targeting Krishnan has also drawn criticism from the billionaire.
A racist image depicting Krishnan as a plate of butter chicken surfaced on X, formerly Twitter. The post drew immediate condemnation, with many users denouncing it as “disgusting” and “distasteful.” Butter chicken is a famous dish associated with Indians.

Take a look the post:

“Here is what Sriram Krishnan would look like if he was butter chicken,” an X user shared along with two photos.

An investor, Jason, reshared it and slamming the post saying, “These racist attacks are disgusting.”
“Sriram Krishnan is awesome, for the record,” he added.
While Krishnan’s expertise is widely acknowledged, his past views on immigration have drawn criticism, fueling a heated debate on social media.

What Elon Musk has to say

Musk, replied to Jason’s post with a “Hundred Points” emoji, a symbol often interpreted as expressing agreement or approval. This response further inflamed the situation, with some criticising Musk for appearing to condone the racist post.

Musk previously said that those who have worked to contribute to this country has his respect.
“Anyone – of any race, creed or nationality – who came to America and worked like hell to contribute to this country will forever have my respect,” Musk said in a post on X.
“America is the land of freedom and opportunity. Fight with every fiber of your being to keep it that way!” he added.

How others reacted

While some appeared to mock Krishnan, others slammed the post as racist.
Where is the race in this?

Butter chicken is one of the most delicious things on earth.

His great ancestor was genius too. Gotta love these two. Welcome to your country brother.

Butter chicken is the bomb. Are we sure this is an insult

If you disagree, don’t retweet. Retweeting in this case is disgusting engagement bait.
Be better @Jason

Classless

LMAO, when you respond you lose, but I do love Indian food. I’ve had my fair share of trolls also commenting on my appearance, so can relate