Congress Criticizes Modi Government Over US Treasury Secretary's Remarks

The Congress party has launched a scathing attack on the Modi government, citing comments from US Treasury Secretary Scott Basset regarding India's oil purchases from Russia. Accusations of compromising sovereignty and yielding to international pressure have intensified. As the opposition seizes on this issue, the Ministry of External Affairs faces scrutiny over its response. Will India challenge these claims, or will the controversy fade away? Read on to explore the implications of this political discourse.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 7, 2026, 12:01 IST

Congress Challenges Modi Government's Sovereignty

On Saturday, the Congress party took aim at the Modi administration, referencing a recent statement made by US Treasury Secretary Scott Basset. The party accused the government of compromising its sovereignty and exhibiting 'cowardly' behavior under international pressure. Congress intensified its criticism, labeling the Modi government as 'cowardly and compromising.'

Scott Basset's Interview Sparks Controversy

Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh shared a video clip from an interview where Basset stated that India had halted oil purchases from Russia at the behest of the United States. However, due to a global oil supply shortage, India has now been 'allowed' to resume buying oil from Russia. Ramesh posted on social media, asserting that the US Treasury Secretary has effectively certified the Modi government’s compliance with President Trump's directives.

India's Stance on Oil Purchases Under Scrutiny

India has consistently maintained that its oil purchases from Russia are based on national interests and that it has not succumbed to Western pressures. However, Basset's comments starkly contradict this official position, providing opposition parties with a significant talking point. It will be intriguing to see how the Ministry of External Affairs responds to this claim. Will India refute the assertion, or will this controversy be swept under the rug as part of 'damage control'?