NEW DELHI: Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s high-profile meeting with US President Donald Trump, the Congress on Thursday questioned whether he would “summon up the courage” to raise India’s concerns over the treatment of deported Indian citizens and other critical issues, including trade, immigration, and climate policies.
Congress questions Modi’s stance on key issues
Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh, in a post on X, posed a series of questions to Modi, urging him to confront Trump on recent deportations. “Will Modi tell Trump that India would send its own aircraft—like Venezuela and Colombia—to bring back deportees in the future?” Ramesh asked.
He also criticized the government’s concessions to the US, including slashing import duties on farm produce and Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and amending the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damages Act, 2010, to benefit US firms.
Concerns over trade, immigration, and climate
The Congress leader pressed Modi on whether he would oppose Trump’s policies, including his stance on Palestine and his withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement and the WHO. Ramesh also raised concerns about “racist attacks” on H1B visa holders, the majority of whom are Indians.
“Will Mr Modi tell President Trump that attacks on H1B visa holders—over 70% of whom are Indian youth—are unacceptable? H1B visas have benefited both countries,” Ramesh stated.
Modi’s meeting with Elon Musk also under scrutiny
The Congress also questioned Modi’s upcoming meeting with Tesla CEO Elon Musk, asking whether India would insist on Tesla manufacturing in India rather than merely assembling vehicles.
“Will Modi uphold his policy of auctioning spectrum instead of administrative allocation, and ensure that security considerations remain non-negotiable for satellite internet providers like Starlink?” Ramesh added.
Modi-Trump talks set against growing bilateral tensions
Modi, currently on a two-day visit to Washington, is set to meet Trump in the first bilateral talks of Trump’s second term. The visit comes amid concerns in New Delhi over Trump’s “America First” trade policies and immigration stance, as well as recent deportations that sparked outrage in India.
The meeting will be closely watched for Modi’s response to these pressing concerns and whether he takes a firm stand on India’s interests.