Opposition Fires Salvo: Modi's Silence on Trump's Russian Oil Claims Sparks Outrage, Accusations of Outsourced Foreign Policy

A political storm is brewing in India as opposition parties launch a blistering attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, questioning his prolonged silence on former US President Donald Trump's recent assertions regarding India's procurement of Russian oil. The opposition, led by prominent figures, has not only demanded clarity but has also raised grave concerns, alleging that crucial foreign policy decisions are being subtly outsourced to the United States, thereby compromising India's strategic autonomy.

Donald Trump, known for his provocative statements, had claimed that India's substantial purchases of Russian oil were facilitated by his administration, essentially suggesting a US endorsement or even directive behind India's energy strategy.

This statement, delivered on a global stage, has ignited a furious debate within India's political circles. Opposition leaders argue that if Trump's claims hold any truth, it points to an alarming erosion of India's independent decision-making capabilities on critical matters of national interest and foreign policy.

The Congress party, along with other opposition factions, has been particularly vocal, emphasizing that the Prime Minister's characteristic silence on such a significant international pronouncement is deeply troubling.

They argue that this silence lends credence to the perception that India's foreign policy, particularly concerning its energy security and geopolitical alignments, is being unduly influenced or even dictated by external powers. "Is India's foreign policy now being written in Washington?" questioned one senior opposition leader, demanding an immediate explanation from the government.

Critics point out that India has consistently maintained its sovereign right to purchase oil from any source, asserting that its energy security is paramount and not subject to external pressures.

The government's previous justifications for buying Russian oil post-Ukraine invasion centered on maximizing national interest and securing affordable energy supplies for its vast population. Trump's remarks, however, introduce a new, uncomfortable dimension to this narrative, suggesting a deeper, perhaps less transparent, level of engagement with US foreign policy objectives.

The opposition's broadside extends beyond just the Russian oil issue.

They contend that this incident is indicative of a broader pattern where India's foreign policy appears increasingly aligned with, and potentially subservient to, US interests. They cite various other instances where they perceive a lack of robust independent action on the global stage, urging the government to reaffirm its commitment to a truly non-aligned and independent foreign policy that prioritizes India's long-term strategic and economic interests above all else.

The ongoing debate underscores the growing domestic scrutiny of India's international relations and the demand for greater transparency and accountability from the government regarding its diplomatic engagements.