Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Thursday backed US President Donald Trump’s recent remark describing the Indian economy as “dead,” saying he was “glad” the US President had acknowledged what he called a “fact.”
Speaking to reporters, Gandhi said, “Yes, he is right. Everyone knows it except the Prime Minister and the Finance Minister. The Indian economy is dead. I’m glad President Trump has stated the truth. The BJP has destroyed the economy to benefit Adani.”
The Congress leader also raised questions about multiple claims made by Trump, including his assertion of mediating a “ceasefire” between India and Pakistan, alleged loss of Indian jets, and the announcement of 25% tariffs on Indian goods.
“Trump has claimed 30-32 times that he facilitated a ceasefire. He also said five Indian jets were downed. Now he talks about 25% tariffs. Why is PM Modi silent on all this? Who is actually in control?” Rahul Gandhi asked.
Trump, made a strong statement on his Truth Social platform while announcing the tariffs and warning of an additional penalty over India’s import of Russian oil.
“I don’t care what India does with Russia. They can take their dead economies down together, for all I care. We’ve done very little business with India; their tariffs are among the highest in the world,” Trump wrote.
Gandhi also criticised External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, accusing the government of mismanaging foreign policy. He pointed to a lack of global condemnation of Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack and alleged diplomatic failures.
“The Foreign Minister gives speeches about our genius foreign policy, but what are the results? America is criticising us, China is pressuring us, and no international voice has condemned Pakistan for the recent attack. PM Modi didn’t even name Trump or China in his speech. Meanwhile, Trump is sharing lunch with the Pakistan Army chief allegedly behind the Pahalgam incident, and the government claims success,” Gandhi said.
Further attacking the BJP government, Rahul Gandhi alleged that India’s economic, defence, and foreign policies are in disarray, and accused PM Modi of catering to corporate interests.
“This trade deal with the US will go exactly as Trump wants. PM Modi works for one person—Adani. The real issue facing the country is that this government has ruined our economy, weakened our defence, and compromised our foreign policy,” he added.
Gandhi’s remarks follow Trump’s aggressive rhetoric targeting India’s trade practices and its ongoing ties with Russia, which the former US president says warrant heavy tariffs and additional penalties. (Agencies)
