India's relationship with the United States, while currently strong, has a history punctuated by periods of tension and "bullying". The present-day scenario, with the U.S. imposing sanctions on Indian companies involved in trade with Iran and Russia, and threats of increased tariffs due to India's import of Russian oil, echoes past instances where the two countries found themselves at odds. However, India's foreign policy has historically been characterized by strategic autonomy and a determination to safeguard its national interests.

Historical Context: Estranged Democracies to Strategic Partners

For decades after India's independence in 1947, relations with the U.S. remained "detached," even strained at times. During the Cold War, India's non-aligned stance and its growing relationship with the Soviet Union often placed it on the opposite side of the geopolitical spectrum from the U.S.. The U.S.'s tilt towards Pakistan, particularly after Pakistan joined the Baghdad Pact (later CENTO), further complicated matters.

Several events contributed to the periodic souring of relations. India's first nuclear test in 1974 led to sanctions from Canada and increased scrutiny from the U.S. regarding nuclear non-proliferation. The Nixon administration's support for Pakistan during the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War also had a chilling effect. Even the Bhopal gas tragedy in 1984 highlighted a lack of cooperation between the two nations.

India's Response to "Bullying"

Despite these challenges, India has consistently asserted its right to an independent foreign policy. This approach, rooted in its history of non-alignment, has evolved into what is now termed "strategic autonomy". Strategic autonomy allows India to pursue its national interests without being dictated by any single country. This has been evident in several instances:

• Non-Alignment During the Cold War: India's refusal to align with either the U.S. or the Soviet Union during the Cold War demonstrated its commitment to independent decision-making.
• The 1998 Nuclear Tests: Despite facing sanctions from the U.S. and other countries following the Pokhran-II nuclear tests, India refused to give up its nuclear arsenal.
• The S-400 Deal with Russia: India proceeded with the purchase of the S-400 missile defense system from Russia despite objections and the threat of sanctions from the U.S..
• Importing Russian Oil: Amidst the Ukraine war, India has defended its decision to continue importing oil from Russia, emphasizing that it is based on national interest and the need for affordable energy. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has also pointed out the "double standards" of the U.S. and Europe, who continue to trade with Russia while criticizing India.

Current Challenges and the Path Ahead

The recent sanctions on Indian companies and the threats of increased tariffs highlight the ongoing challenges in the U.S.-India relationship. These actions are perceived by some as the U.S. attempting to "bully" India into aligning with its foreign policy objectives. However, India has responded firmly, asserting its sovereign right to make its own decisions.

Several factors will shape the future of U.S.-India relations:

• India's Strategic Autonomy: India is expected to continue prioritizing its strategic autonomy, making decisions based on its national interests.
• Economic Ties: Despite trade disputes, the U.S. remains a major trading partner for India, and strong economic ties are crucial for both countries' growth.
• Defense Cooperation: The defense relationship between the U.S. and India has deepened in recent years, with increased military exercises and technology sharing. However, India is also diversifying its military suppliers to avoid dependence on any one nation.
• The China Factor: Both the U.S. and India share concerns about China's growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region, which could serve as a basis for continued cooperation.

In conclusion, while the U.S. and India have built a strong partnership in recent decades, disagreements and instances of perceived "bullying" are not new. India's commitment to strategic autonomy and its growing economic and geopolitical influence suggest that it will continue to navigate these challenges while prioritizing its national interests.