Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Aug 7: The Shiv Sena-UBT launched a fierce critique of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, questioning the effectiveness of his foreign diplomacy and alleging misuse of institutions against the Opposition. The remarks come in the wake of U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to impose an additional 25 per cent tariff on Indian goods—raising the total duty to 50 per cent.

Reacting to PM Modi’s statement that he is “ready to pay a personal price” to protect the interests of farmers, fishermen, and livestock holders, Shiv Sena-UBT spokesperson Anand Dubey asked who exactly would pay that price. “After all the ‘Namaste Trump’ and ‘Howdy Modi’ events, what kind of friendship is this? If this was true trust between leaders, why are we facing another round of tariffs? We are not bound to any country—we can trade with whoever we want,” Dubey said.

He further claimed that the burden would not fall on the Prime Minister or his allies in business, but rather on the poor, farmers, and the unemployed. Dubey labelled the developments as evidence of failed foreign and economic policies and demanded transparency if there was any pressure from Trump’s administration.

Turning to Modi’s scheduled visit to China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin from August 31 to September 1—his first in seven years—Dubey criticised the Prime Minister’s selective sensitivity to questions raised by the Opposition. “When the Opposition raises valid questions, why does it hurt so much? The PM should treat the ruling party and opposition equally,” he said.

He acknowledged India and China’s long-standing trade ties, even post the 1962 war, and said business with China should be assessed independently of relations with the U.S. However, he cautioned against ignoring China’s border aggression, adding that while constructive diplomacy with neighbours is essential, India must stand firm against encroachment.

Dubey also addressed the Election Commission’s recent notice to RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav concerning his Elector Photo Identity Card (EPIC). He called the move politically motivated, saying, “Tejashwi Yadav is a rising leader and future CM of Bihar. That’s why the BJP is scared. First they used ED and CBI, now they’re using the EC.”

Dubey argued that the alleged dual EPIC issue was more likely a failure of the Election Commission than a deliberate action by Tejashwi. He contrasted the present-day EC with the era of former Chief Election Commissioner T.N. Seshan, saying the institution once commanded national respect. “Today, no one even knows who the Chief Election Commissioner is. That’s the difference.”

He concluded by mocking the system’s inefficiencies, citing bizarre instances such as someone named ‘Trump’ appearing on voter rolls in Bihar. “The negligence lies with the system, not with the leaders,” Dubey said, calling for accountability within India’s democratic institutions.