“Everyone Knows Indian Economy is Dead, Except Modi and Sitharaman”: Rahul Gandhi Backs Trump’s Harsh Remarks

New Delhi: Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led government on Thursday, echoing US President Donald Trump’s recent statement that termed India’s economy as “dead.” Gandhi said the remark was not surprising and reflected a truth “known to everyone except Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.”

Speaking to reporters in the Parliament House complex, Gandhi said, “Yes, Trump is right. The whole world knows this — only Modi and Sitharaman are in denial. The Indian economy is in a collapsed state. I’m glad President Trump has openly said what everyone else already knows.”

Rahul Gandhi did not stop at the economy. He went on to allege that the BJP government had severely damaged the country’s economic, foreign, and defence policies. “They are running this country to the ground. There is no vision, no strategic direction — only PR, optics and benefits for a select few,” he said.

He reiterated his long-standing allegation of crony capitalism, directly naming industrialist Gautam Adani. “Everything is being done for one man — Adani. Economic decisions, foreign relations, even trade deals are all tailored to serve one business group. Is this how a democracy works?” Gandhi asked.

Referring to the recent U.S. announcement of 25% tariffs on Indian goods, he said, “This deal will happen on Trump’s terms. And Modi will do exactly as told. Where is the leadership? Where is the assertiveness to stand for India’s interests?”

Gandhi also took aim at India’s global position, saying, “Our External Affairs Minister talks about genius foreign policy. Then why is the US humiliating us, why is China pushing us, and why do international forums refuse to even mention Pakistan when we raise issues of terrorism?”

Criticizing the Modi government’s silence on Trump’s multiple provocative claims, Gandhi questioned, “Trump has claimed ceasefires, he’s claimed we lost jets, and now he has announced tariffs. Why is there no official response? Who holds the remote control of India’s foreign policy?”

Trump, in a sharply worded post on Truth Social, stated, “I don’t care what India does with Russia. They can take their dead economies down together, for all I care.” He further claimed that U.S.-India trade has been limited due to India’s “very high tariffs” and announced the 25% tariff would come into effect from August 1.