How has Siddaramaiah defended Rahul Gandhi against BJP mockery?
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Synopsis
In a bold statement, Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah defends Rahul Gandhi's predictions against the BJP's mockery, particularly regarding Trump's tariffs. He emphasizes the importance of strategic autonomy in India's foreign policy, urging the Modi government to prioritize national interests over personal PR campaigns.
Key Takeaways
- Siddaramaiah defends Rahul Gandhi's foresight.
- Trump's tariffs are deemed economic blackmail.
- Critique of Modi's foreign policy approach.
- Emphasis on India's strategic autonomy.
- Importance of prioritizing national interests over optics.
Bengaluru, Aug 7 (NationPress) In response to US President Donald Trump's decision to implement a 50 percent tariff on India, Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah remarked on Thursday that even though the BJP has ridiculed him, the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has been proven correct time and again.
Expressing his thoughts on social media platform X, CM Siddaramaiah said, "I completely align with LoP Rahul Gandhi. Whether it's GST, demonetisation, Chinese aggression, or the failures during COVID, farm laws, Rafale, PM CARES, and electoral bonds — Rahul Gandhi highlighted these issues early on. The BJP mocked him, but he has consistently been validated."
He added, "His caution regarding US President Trump's 50 percent tariff is no different. It represents economic blackmail — a consequence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi prioritizing headline management over genuine diplomacy and national interests," stated the CM.
He further criticized, "Since 2019, Prime Minister Modi has gone to great lengths to appease Trump — from the optics of 'Howdy Modi' (where the slogan 'Abki Baar Trump Sarkar' was raised) to hosting Namaste 'Doland' Trump amidst a looming COVID crisis. He even courted Elon Musk, fully aware of his ties to Trump."
"Yet, Trump was unimpressed. He perceived it not as diplomacy but as a form of surrender," he noted.
"Then he did precisely what a genuine ally wouldn’t do: He asserted 33 times (and counting) that he facilitated peace between India and Pakistan. He hosted Pakistan’s Army Chief — the individual responsible for inciting hate speeches that led to the Pahalgam terror attack. He supported Israel’s brutal offensive on Gaza — and Prime Minister Modi remained silent, merely to maintain favor with Washington," CM Siddaramaiah asserted.
"Throughout all this — No protests. No resistance. No dignity. Now, Trump imposes unfair tariffs on India. Even worse, he is pressuring us to sever ties with Russia — a direct assault on our sovereignty. No foreign power should dictate our trade decisions," he emphasized.
"This is the price of conducting foreign policy as a personal PR campaign," he underscored.
"In the 1970s, then PM Indira Gandhi stood resolutely against American pressure. Instead of criticizing her legacy, Prime Minister Modi should take a page from it. India must protect its strategic autonomy with dignity — not surrender it for photo opportunities," Siddaramaiah advised.
"Disregarding the LoP's insightful warnings has cost the nation dearly. It’s time for the Modi Government to mature — and prioritize India’s interests," he concluded.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the weight of Siddaramaiah's comments. They underline a crucial conversation about India's foreign policy and the need for a balance between diplomacy and national interests. The criticism of the Modi administration's approach to foreign relations is vital for fostering an informed public discourse.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Siddaramaiah say about Trump's tariffs?
Siddaramaiah criticized Trump's 50 percent tariffs on India, labeling them as economic blackmail and a result of Modi's poor diplomatic choices.
How has Rahul Gandhi been validated according to Siddaramaiah?
Siddaramaiah stated that Rahul Gandhi's early warnings on various issues, including GST and COVID failures, have proven to be correct despite BJP's ridicule.
What historical reference did Siddaramaiah make?
He referenced former PM Indira Gandhi's firm stance against American pressure in the 1970s, implying that Modi should learn from her legacy.
