New Delhi: The political temperature between New Delhi and Washington just went up a notch. Without taking names, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday appeared to throw a veiled jab at US President Donald Trump, saying that the “so-called boss of everyone” cannot digest India’s rapid rise on the global stage.
This is the first sharp reaction from a Union Minister since Trump’s move to slap 50% import tariffs on Indian goods. While Rajnath didn’t utter the word “Trump”, political circles are calling it a direct hit — and in diplomacy, sometimes the hint is louder than the name.
The Speech That Sparked Headlines
Speaking at the inauguration of a government project in Madhya Pradesh, Rajnath Singh said:
“Many are unhappy with India’s fast-paced development. They don’t like it. In their eyes, they are the boss of everyone — so how is India moving ahead so fast?”
He further alleged that some global players are deliberately hiking the prices of Indian products abroad so that buyers lose interest — a subtle reference to the new tariff wall. But, in his words, “No power can stop India from emerging as a global power.”
The Trump–India Tariff Row
Over the past few days, Donald Trump has repeatedly targeted India — calling the Indian economy “dead” and making it clear he has no plans to soften his stance on tariffs. The 50% import duty on Indian goods is being seen as a major trade blow, and one that the Modi government is under pressure to respond to.
Interestingly, Prime Minister Modi too had sent indirect signals just days ago. Speaking at the MS Swaminathan Centenary International Conference in Delhi, he said:
“India will never compromise on the interests of farmers, livestock keepers and fishermen. I know I may have to pay a heavy price for this — but I’m ready.”
Insiders believe that was also aimed at Trump, especially as India has refused to fully open its agricultural market to the US.
Political Reactions at Home
While the government is sticking to indirect remarks, opposition leaders are pushing for a more direct approach. They argue that PM Modi himself should take Trump’s name and give a clear, public response — especially since, they say, Modi had once openly campaigned in Trump’s favour.
For now, Rajnath’s words have set the tone — India is projecting strength, signalling that its rise on the global stage is inevitable, tariff wall or not. The coming weeks will reveal whether this war of words stays rhetorical or spills over into tougher trade moves.
