Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Criticizes PM Modi, Says Modi Prioritized Headline Management Over National Interest on Trump's 50% Tariff; Rahul Gandhi's Earlier Warnings Proved Correct.
Siddaramaiah-PM Modi: Following the United States' decision to double tariffs on goods imported from India to 50 percent, the opposition has directly attacked the central government regarding the country's foreign policy. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has taken a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that the government prioritizes headline management over national interest. He cited previous statements made by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on this issue, saying that he has been proven right time and again.
Sharp Reaction to America's Tariff Decision
On August 6th, US President Donald Trump issued an order imposing an additional 25 percent duty on certain goods imported from India. This brought the total tariff rate to 50 percent. Following this decision, questions have been raised about India's diplomatic efforts. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has described this as economic blackmail against India. He alleges that this situation is a result of the Modi government's weak foreign policy.
Rahul Gandhi's Warning Called Correct
Siddaramaiah said that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has criticized the government's policies from time to time and has been proven correct every time. He had previously highlighted the shortcomings of the government on issues such as demonetization, GST, Chinese aggression, COVID management, agricultural laws, the Rafale deal, the PM CARES Fund, and electoral bonds. Now that the US has imposed heavy tariffs on India, Rahul Gandhi's warning has once again been proven true.
Allegation of Trying to Please Trump
Siddaramaiah says that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been trying to please Donald Trump for a long time. He stated that in programs like 'Howdy Modi,' Modi even gave the slogan "Abki Baar Trump Sarkar." During the COVID crisis as well, he prioritized Trump's visit to India and remained busy with events like "Namaste Trump." Slogans like MEGA (Make America Great Again) and MIGA (Make India Great Again) were coined by combining MAGA and MIGA. But all this proved ineffective.
Mention of Elon Musk to Israel
Siddaramaiah further said that, seeing Trump's influence, PM Modi tried to bring Elon Musk to India. He made several attempts to establish strategic partnerships in America. But Trump considered this not Indian self-reliance but a policy of surrender.
Similarly, he criticized America for supporting Israel's attacks on Gaza and said that Prime Minister Modi remained silent on this as well. He alleges that the Modi government only tries to maintain a good image internationally, but when it comes to the interests of the country, no firm steps are taken.
Questions on Hosting Pakistan and the Army Chief
The Chief Minister of Karnataka also said that Trump has claimed 33 times to have established peace between India and Pakistan. He hosted the Pakistan Army Chief, even though he was suspected of being behind the Pahalgam terrorist attack in India. Siddaramaiah says that Prime Minister Modi did not raise any objections even on such sensitive matters.
Opposition's Attack on Government's Silence
Siddaramaiah said that the Modi government's strategy is only to stay in the headlines. Whether it is global trade policy or strategic issues, India's response is often weak and delayed. He asked why the government has not clearly opposed Trump's tariff decision until now.
