The general mood across the nation is that we have been betrayed by the US and Donald Trump, especially given the bonhomie between the latter and our Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
In fact, Modi actually endorsed Trump for President, saying, “Abki Baar….Trump Sarkar”. Naturally, there is a sense of shock, disquiet and anger at the 50% tariffs and how they are going to impact the daily life of the average Indian.
But log on to any media and chances are you’ll come across a video or article saying Trump made a huge mistake that will boomerang on the United States and how his actions will tilt India towards China.
Adding credibility to these assumptions is that these opinions are purported to have been made by foreign economists and bureaucrats.
While the mood of anger of India is understandable, it is equally important for us to take a step back at this critical juncture, rein in our emotions and try and look at the matter dispassionately.
The US in all likelihood will not at all be affected by its actions against India. It has a huge trade deficit with India and stands to lose nothing by taxing Indian exports.
What if India gravitates towards China? After, Galwan, relations between China and India gravitated to a new low and in any case, China will not do something that might upset Pakistan, who it trusts more than India.
Besides, the historical baggage of India with China is not something that can be forgotten over the course of a couple of visits.
As for the United States, it has never benefitted from India militarily. When the US invaded Afghanistan, it got no help of any kind from India that decided to stay neutral.
On the other hand, Pakistan whether out of fear or some other reason, gave the United States whatever possible support it could give to fight the Taliban.
If the US were to get engaged in a direct conflict with China in the future, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see them operate out of Pakistan and use their air bases and ports.
Therefore, let’s not indulge in a show of jingoism and flex our muscles on digital platforms lambasting the US. It’s time for cool minds to take over, realize that we are really at an advantage and take steps to salvage the situation.
The good thing is that the government at least hasn’t made any harsh responses to the tariffs thereby leaving the room open for reconciliation.
The truth of the matter is that we are like the hapless husband who goes to the lover when the wife slams the door on his face and vice-versa.
May the day not arrive when we end up rejected by both!
