Former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda unleashed a blistering critique of U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday, branding him the most “volatile, uncivil, and irresponsible” head of state in modern history. The Janata Dal (Secular) leader’s scathing remarks came in response to Trump’s recent comments on India, particularly his claim that India’s economy is “dead” and his imposition of a 25% tariff on Indian goods, effective August 7, 2025, citing trade deficits and India’s ties with Russia.
In a strongly worded statement, Deve Gowda, 92, expressed shock at Trump’s “baseless and ill-tempered” remarks, accusing him of disrespecting not only India but also longstanding U.S. allies. “Modern history has seen no other head of state so reckless. Even a small Indian trader or farmer, with their dignity and integrity, could teach Trump many lessons,” he said, suggesting a “fundamental flaw” in Trump’s approach that diplomacy cannot fix. He refrained from further personal attacks to avoid “lowering our own standards.”
Deve Gowda lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for standing firm against Trump’s “bullying,” particularly in protecting India’s agricultural sector and small businesses, which support over half the population. “India, under Modi’s leadership, has not compromised its national interest and will never bow to threats,” he said, highlighting India’s status as the world’s fifth-largest and fastest-growing economy. Refuting Trump’s “dead” economy claim, he emphasized India’s resilience and sovereignty since Independence, crediting its “God-given ability” to overcome challenges.
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The former PM also took aim at opposition leaders, particularly from the Congress, who he accused of “rejoicing” in Trump’s remarks and acting as his “deluded spokespersons” in India. This follows Congress MP Shashi Tharoor’s sarcastic response to Trump’s claim of a U.S.-Pakistan oil deal, which raised doubts about its feasibility. Deve Gowda warned such leaders against undermining national interest for political gain.
The controversy stems from Trump’s recent executive order imposing tariffs on 69 countries, including India, and his Truth Social post about a trade deal with Pakistan to develop “massive oil reserves,” which he suggested India might buy. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also cited India’s Russian oil purchases as a “point of irritation.” Deve Gowda’s defense aligns with India’s broader pushback, with Modi’s government emphasizing self-reliance and rejecting external pressure, especially on trade and defense ties with Russia.
As global trade tensions rise, Deve Gowda’s remarks underscore India’s resolve to protect its economic and strategic autonomy, setting the stage for a diplomatic showdown with the Trump administration.
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