New Delhi : A sharp divide within the INDIA bloc emerged after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi endorsed former US President Donald Trump’s claim that the Indian economy is “dead.” In contrast, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi slammed the remark, calling it either “arrogance or ignorance.”
Rahul, speaking to reporters in Parliament, said, “Trump is right. Everyone except the PM and Finance Minister knows the Indian economy is dead. I’m glad he stated the truth.”
📍SHOCKER! Rahul Gandhi agrees with Donald Trump – says Indian economy is DEAD.
— Criticising govt is fine, but endorsing a foreign leader’s insult to your own nation? That’s not opposition — that’s betrayal.
— When Trump mocks India, Rahul nods. SHAMEFUL. pic.twitter.com/jHGNoafk97
— Megh Updates 🚨™ (@MeghUpdates) July 31, 2025
Trump had earlier posted on Truth Social, attacking India and Russia, saying their “dead economies” can go down together, blaming high tariffs and strong Russia ties for strained trade.
Reacting sharply, Priyanka Chaturvedi wrote on X, “India is among the world’s top five and fastest-growing economies. Calling it dead reflects either arrogance or ignorance.”
Not that one needs to say it there’s enough legitimate data available to know that Indian economy is in the top 5 of the world and one of the fastest growing economies. Calling it a dead economy can only come from a position of arrogance or ignorance. Thank you for your attention…
— Priyanka Chaturvedi🇮🇳 (@priyankac19) July 31, 2025
Meanwhile, Trump announced a 25% tariff on Indian imports effective August 1, citing unfair trade practices and military ties with Russia. When asked about future ties, he said negotiations were ongoing.
India responded cautiously, stating it is assessing the impact and remains committed to a fair and balanced trade deal. The Commerce Ministry emphasized it will take all steps necessary to protect national interests.
