New Delhi, Aug 1 (NationPress) Shiv Sena-UBT MP Priyanka Chaturvedi on Friday criticized US President Donald Trump’s statement branding India’s economy as "dead", labeling it as not only factually incorrect but also completely unacceptable. She questioned the timing of these remarks amidst ongoing trade discussions between India and the US.

In an interview with IANS, Chaturvedi stated: "What Donald Trump has said about India having a ‘dead economy’ is entirely unacceptable. Whether it stems from ignorance or arrogance, such comments reflect a misguided attempt to exert pressure on India ahead of trade negotiations. India is one of the fastest-growing economies globally and has consistently acted as a vital voice in the Global South. We currently rank among the top five global economies. While we face challenges—including issues related to per capita income, unemployment, and the struggles of small businesses and farmers—labeling our economy as ‘dead’ is both factually incorrect and diplomatically offensive."

She also expressed concerns regarding the US's sudden implementation of 25% tariffs on Indian goods, calling it contradictory to the ongoing trade dialogue.

“Such abrupt policy changes raise serious questions within India’s Commerce Ministry. Until recently, there were numerous press conferences and assurances that the US and India were close to finalizing a trade agreement, with American officials expected to visit in September. Now, we are met with harsh rhetoric and new tariffs. Moreover, punitive measures are being taken against India simply for maintaining its diplomatic ties with Russia. This is profoundly regrettable, particularly given the long-standing strategic partnership between India and the US,” she emphasized to IANS.

When asked about Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s social media post appearing to back Trump’s criticism, Chaturvedi clarified she had not seen the specific quote but distanced herself from any endorsement of Trump’s statements.

“I have not seen Rahul Gandhi’s exact quote and won't comment on that specifically. However, I will stress that whether it's GST issues, misuse of enforcement agencies, declining per capita income, rising unemployment, or the plight of small businesses and farmers, we have consistently challenged the government on these domestic issues. For a foreign leader to label our economy ‘dead’ simply because a trade deal isn’t progressing in their favor is a significant concern. It not only insults India but also raises questions about our national sovereignty. India should not be coerced into changing its international relations. As an Indian citizen, I find such language unacceptable,” she asserted.

Chaturvedi further expressed serious concerns about the recently released draft electoral rolls, which followed a month-long Special Intensive Revision (SIR) by the Election Commission. She accused the BJP of manipulating the list for political gain.

“The voter list seems to be edited, curated, and controlled by the BJP. Many legitimate voters, particularly migrant workers from states like Bihar who work elsewhere in the country, have had their names removed. Reports indicate that over 36 lakh individuals are missing from the rolls. These are voters in their home states but are now excluded entirely,” she added.

She also criticized the removal of Aadhaar and ration card requirements, despite clear guidance from the Supreme Court.

“The Supreme Court had emphasized that Aadhaar and ration card details must be included for transparency and inclusivity. Yet this directive has been disregarded. We have escalated this issue to the Supreme Court and will continue to raise it at every level. This poses a threat to the democratic process, and the public deserves to have their voices acknowledged,” she stated.

Chaturvedi also commented on the controversy involving Maharashtra Minister Manikrao Kokate, who was filmed playing an online card game during an Assembly session. The minister, already facing backlash for controversial remarks about farmers, was quietly transferred from the Agriculture Ministry to the Sports and Youth Welfare Ministry.

"This doesn’t represent accountability—it’s appeasement. If you aim to convey a message to the public, especially to Maharashtra's farmers, a mere departmental transfer won’t suffice. Playing rummy in the Assembly and making derogatory remarks about farmers should lead to dismissal, not a lateral move to another ministry,” she asserted.

She criticized the government’s inability to take decisive action against ministers involved in misconduct and corruption.

"They (the MahaYuti) assumed power promising transparent governance, attentiveness to public issues, and support for farmers and women. Yet, today, several cabinet ministers are caught up in controversies. From corruption to violence to blatant disrespect in the Assembly—no one is being held accountable. This so-called ‘transfer’ is merely a reward. They’ve told the minister, ‘Go relax in another department for a while, and the public outrage will die down.’ It’s an affront to the people of Maharashtra," she concluded.