In the wake of renewed tariff threats from former U.S. President Donald Trump, the Congress party has launched a strong critique of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy, particularly questioning the benefits of the "special bond" once touted between Modi and Trump.
Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has led the charge, mocking the Prime Minister's past interactions with Trump, including high-profile events like "Howdy Modi" and "Namaste Trump". Ramesh sarcastically referenced a popular Bollywood song, "Dost dost na raha," to suggest that the friendship has become "very expensive" for India. He highlighted Trump's recent threats to raise tariffs on Indian goods due to India's continued import of Russian oil, questioning the value of the personal connection previously emphasized. Ramesh pointed out that during Trump's presidency, claims were made about a special bond between the two leaders, with photo opportunities and assurances of close ties. However, he argued that the current situation, with threats of increased tariffs, reveals the true cost of this "friendship". He also criticized Modi's silence when Trump repeatedly claimed credit for brokering a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. Ramesh warned of emerging geopolitical challenges, stating that "China, America, and Pakistan have become a challenge for us".
Echoing similar sentiments, other Congress leaders have voiced their concerns. Anand Sharma, a former Union Commerce Minister, asserted that Trump's comments on India and its economy were "belittling and unacceptable". He urged the government not to succumb to what he described as Trump's "bullying tactics" to sign a "suboptimal" trade deal. Sharma emphasized that India should uphold its sovereignty and national interests, and that Parliament and leaders of all political parties should be taken into confidence regarding any understanding reached with the U.S. He suggested prioritizing trade deals with other major economies and blocs, such as the UK and the EU, and cautioned against yielding to coercive tactics in bilateral trade talks.
Manish Tewari, a Congress MP, also strongly condemned Trump's threats to raise tariffs on Indian goods, calling it "constant bullying and hectoring". Tewari stated that Trump's "disparaging remarks hurt the dignity and self-respect of 140 crore Indians" and expressed hope that the government would "show the resolve and spine to stare this gentleman down". He further added that India has a historical legacy of standing up against anything that threatens its national interest and that Trump's tariff threats need to be met with a steadfast national resolve by the government.
These reactions from Congress leaders reflect a broader concern about the current state of India-U.S. relations and the perceived impact of past diplomatic strategies. The leaders are calling for a reassessment of India's approach to engaging with the U.S., emphasizing the need to protect national interests and uphold the country's dignity in the face of external pressures.
