Is India's Sovereignty at Risk? Congress Accuses Modi of US Blackmail Over Russian Oil
Concerns Over India's Strategic Autonomy
New Delhi: Following the announcement from the US regarding a temporary waiver that permits Indian refiners to acquire Russian oil, the Congress party expressed grave concerns on Friday, claiming that India's strategic independence and national sovereignty are facing a significant threat due to alleged coercion from the United States towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Rahul Gandhi, a prominent Congress leader, criticized the current foreign policy of India, attributing it to the manipulation of a 'compromised individual'. His remarks came in light of the US's recent decision to allow the purchase of Russian oil.
In the context of rising tensions with Iran, the US has issued a 30-day temporary waiver for Russian oil purchases.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated, "President Trump's energy policy has led to unprecedented levels of oil and gas production. To ensure a steady flow of oil into the global market, we are granting a temporary waiver for Indian refiners to buy Russian oil."
In a post on social media platform X, Gandhi emphasized that India's foreign policy should reflect the collective will of its citizens, grounded in the nation's history, geography, and spiritual values of truth and non-violence.
He further asserted, "What we are witnessing is not a coherent policy but rather the exploitation of a compromised individual," referring to Modi.
Gandhi also referenced his earlier speech in the Lok Sabha, where he warned about the potential compromise of India's energy security, stating, "The US will dictate our oil purchases, whether from Russia or Iran, while our Prime Minister remains passive."
The Congress party echoed Gandhi's sentiments on social media, stating, "The evidence is clear, and the silence of the compromised Prime Minister is disgraceful."
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge claimed that India's autonomy and sovereignty are in jeopardy due to Modi's alleged blackmail concerning the Epstein Files and the Adani Case.
Kharge criticized the US's language in granting a 'waiver' for oil purchases, suggesting it undermines India's status as a responsible global partner.
He remarked, "The US's temporary waiver for Indian refineries to buy Russian oil indicates that the Modi government is relinquishing diplomatic ground. This is language reserved for sanctioned nations, not for India."
Kharge further stated that India has historically maintained its independence in foreign relations, unlike the current administration.
He lamented, "The slogan 'Main Desh Nahi Jhukne Doonga' was merely a campaign tactic. Today, 1.4 billion Indians feel betrayed as Modi has surrendered our interests."
Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh, in a poetic post on X, questioned the ongoing American influence, asking, "How long will this American blackmail continue?"
During a press conference, Pawan Khera, head of Congress's media department, reiterated Gandhi's warnings about US control over India's oil purchases.
Khera questioned whether the US would dictate India's oil import licenses, highlighting the ongoing trade negotiations between India and the US.
He recalled Gandhi's previous advice to Modi to pause the trade deal after the US Supreme Court lifted tariffs imposed by Trump, which had penalized India for purchasing Russian oil.
Khera asserted, "Modi lacks the resolve to withdraw from the trade agreement," and noted that India's international standing has diminished under the current leadership.
He concluded by stating, "The Prime Minister has capitulated to American demands. What is he afraid of? Perhaps the Epstein files compel him to comply with US wishes."
Trump had previously imposed a 25% tariff on India for buying Russian oil, claiming that such purchases were aiding Russia's military actions in Ukraine.
Recently, the US and India announced a framework for a trade agreement, with Trump revoking the tariffs in light of India's commitment to reduce energy imports from Russia and increase purchases of American energy products.