The Indian National Congress has launched a sharp critique against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government's foreign policy in light of recent actions and statements by former U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump's recent imposition of a 25% tariff on Indian exports to the U.S., coupled with threats of further penalties related to India's trade with Russia and its involvement in BRICS, have become a focal point of the Congress party's criticism.
Congress leaders have accused PM Modi of a "diplomatic failure," suggesting that his personal rapport with Trump, highlighted by events like the "Howdy, Modi!" rally in Texas, has not translated into tangible benefits for India. They argue that the country is now paying the price for Modi's perceived closeness to Trump, especially as the U.S. President has repeatedly claimed to have mediated a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, a claim disputed by New Delhi.
The opposition party has questioned PM Modi's "silence" on Trump's assertions regarding the ceasefire, with some leaders suggesting it indicates a "weakness" or a desire to be "subservient" to the former U.S. President. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi challenged PM Modi to call Trump a "liar" in Parliament regarding his claims of using trade leverage to end the India-Pakistan conflict.
In response to the criticism, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has defended the government's foreign policy, asserting that it is guided by national interests and strategic considerations. He has also countered the Congress's historical narrative, pointing to instances where previous governments allegedly laid the groundwork for current geopolitical tensions with China and Pakistan.
PM Modi has also addressed the issue, emphasizing the importance of protecting India's economic interests in a turbulent global environment. He has promoted the "Make in India" initiative and signaled that India would continue to make independent decisions regarding its foreign policy, including the purchase of Russian oil. The Modi government hasn't instructed Indian oil refiners to halt Russian oil purchases, maintaining that crude purchases remain a commercial decision.
The Congress party's criticism extends beyond the specific issue of Trump's tariffs and ceasefire claims. They have characterized these developments as symptomatic of a broader "collapse of foreign policy" under the Modi government. They argue that the government's policies have isolated India and undermined its relationships with key partners. Some have also pointed to Trump's outreach to Pakistan, including inviting the Pakistan's army chief to Washington D.C., as evidence of a shift in U.S. foreign policy that is detrimental to India’s interests.
The debate over India's foreign policy comes at a time of increasing global uncertainty and shifting alliances. The U.S.'s hardening stance toward India, particularly regarding its relationship with Russia, has added another layer of complexity to the situation. While the Modi government has maintained that its foreign policy decisions are based on independent assessments and national interests, the Congress party has questioned whether these decisions are truly serving the country's best interests.
The opposition party has called for a more assertive foreign policy that prioritizes India's economic sovereignty and strategic autonomy. They have urged the government to stand up to U.S. pressure and pursue a more independent course in international affairs.
