Congress Slams PM Modi Over Trump’s Demands, Questions Govt’s Silence

Congress leader Pawan Khera on Tuesday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government for allegedly succumbing to US President Donald Trump’s demands.

According to Khera, Trump’s “deal” to broker peace between India and Pakistan comes with strings attached, including slashing farm import tariffs from 40 per cent to 5 per cent and potential sanctions on countries buying Russian oil, with India being specifically targeted.

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“No Point Having a 56-Inch Chest if All it Knows is Surrender,” Khera questioned the government’s stance in a post on handle X, saying, “First, Trump made Narendra Modi call off Operation Sindoor in the name of a ‘deal.’ Now that deal means: India will have to slash farm import tariffs from 40 per cent to 5 per cent and Trump threatens sanctions on countries buying Russian oil — India included.”

Trump on Monday threatened sanctions on buyers of Russian exports unless Russia agrees to a peace deal. India relies on imports for over 85 per cent of its crude oil requirements. While the Middle East previously dominated the supply, Russia has established itself as the primary supplier for approximately three years.

Khera’s remarks highlight concerns over India’s sovereignty and the government’s ability to negotiate favorable terms with foreign leaders.

The controversy revolves around Trump’s repeated claims of brokering peace between India and Pakistan, with Khera questioning PM Modi’s silence on these claims. The Congress leader has consistently pointed out the government’s seemingly passive response to Trump’s demands, including reciprocal tariffs and potential disruption of BRICS.

While the government has not directly responded to Khera’s allegations, the Ministry of External Affairs has previously refuted Trump’s claims, reiterating India’s policy of bilaterally addressing issues with Pakistan.