Is PM Modi’s 'Friendship' with Trump Genuine Amid Tariff Hikes?
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Synopsis
Amid escalating tariffs on Indian goods by the US, Shiv Sena-UBT challenges PM Modi's friendly ties with Trump, raising vital questions about the impact on India's farmers and economy. This article delves into the implications of these tariffs and the political discourse surrounding them.
Key Takeaways
- Shiv Sena-UBT questions PM Modi's friendship with Trump.
- US tariffs pose a significant economic threat to India.
- The burden of tariffs will fall on farmers and the unemployed.
- PM Modi's upcoming visit to China is notable after seven years.
- Constructive dialogue with neighbors is essential for India.
Mumbai, Aug 7 (NationPress) Following the decision by US President Donald Trump to enforce an additional 25 percent tariff on Indian products, bringing the overall duty to 50 percent, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his willingness to 'pay a personal price' to safeguard the interests of farmers, fishermen, and livestock owners in India. In this context, the Shiv Sena-UBT raised questions about the legitimacy of the PM's purported friendship with the American leader.
In a statement to IANS, Shiv Sena-UBT spokesperson Anand Dubey remarked: 'When he (PM Modi) claims he is ready to pay a personal price, I must ask—who is accountable for this situation? What does this friendship entail? After all the ‘Namaste Trump’ and ‘Howdy Modi’ events, where is that supposed trust? If this bond was genuine, why did Trump impose not only a 25 percent tariff but an additional 25 percent? Are we subservient to any nation? We should be free to trade with anyone.'
'PM Modi states he’s prepared to pay the price—yet whose price is it? The burden will fall upon the impoverished, the farmers, and the jobless, not his industrialist allies. This predicament stems from ineffective economic and foreign policies. If Trump is applying any pressure, the public deserves to understand the reasoning behind it.'
Dubey also commented on PM Modi’s forthcoming journey to China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin from August 31 to September 1, marking his first visit to China in seven years.
'The Prime Minister can traverse the globe and speak on various international platforms. Yet, when the opposition raises concerns, why does it cause him discomfort? PM Modi should regard both the ruling party and the opposition on equal footing,' he stated.
'India and China have maintained trade relations for decades, even post the 1962 war. Annual business worth crores transpires. Trade with China should be assessed independently, devoid of American influences. Engaging in constructive dialogue with all neighboring countries—except Pakistan—is a sound strategy. However, we must also resist Chinese encroachment.'
Dubey further addressed the Election Commission’s recent notice to RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav about his Elector Photo Identity Card (EPIC) submission.
'Tejashwi Yadav is an emerging leader, likely to be the next Chief Minister of Bihar. This frightens the BJP. In their fear, they resort to using the ED and CBI. Now that these tactics have failed, the Election Commission is being weaponized,' Dubey conveyed to IANS.
Questioning the narrative, he inquired: 'How could a Deputy CM possess two EPIC cards? That’s not his oversight—it highlights a significant failure on the part of the Election Commission. Previously, we had TN Seshan, who garnered respect for the EC. Today, the public is unaware of who CEC Gyanesh Kumar is. That illustrates the disparity.'
He emphasized that the negligence originates from the EC, not the leaders.
'In Bihar, even individuals named ‘Trump’ are registered as voters. The fault lies within the system, not with the leaders,' he asserted.
Point of View
It is crucial to uphold the integrity of our nation while critically analyzing political relationships that affect us economically. The evolving dynamics between India and the US must be scrutinized to ensure that the interests of our citizens, especially the vulnerable, are prioritized over diplomatic posturing.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current tariff rate imposed by the US on Indian goods?
The US has imposed an additional 25 percent tariff on Indian goods, raising the total duty to 50 percent.
What was PM Modi's response to the tariff increase?
PM Modi stated that he is 'ready to pay a personal price' to protect the interests of India's farmers, fishermen, and livestock holders.
How did Shiv Sena-UBT react to the tariff hike?
Shiv Sena-UBT questioned the authenticity of PM Modi's friendship with Trump and highlighted the burden that these tariffs would place on the poor and farmers.
What did Anand Dubey say about PM Modi's comments?
Anand Dubey raised concerns about who would truly bear the costs of the tariffs, suggesting it would be the marginalized, not Modi's industrialist allies.
What is the significance of PM Modi's upcoming visit to China?
PM Modi's visit to China for the SCO Summit marks his first trip to the country in seven years, amidst ongoing discussions about trade relations.
