Daijiworld Media Network - Chicago
Chicago, Dec 15: Dr. Bharat Barai, a prominent Indian-American physician and community leader, has cautioned that India–US relations could remain tense unless Washington reverses recent tariff measures targeting Indian imports. Speaking to reporters, he argued that India has been unfairly singled out amid broader global trade and energy dynamics, undermining years of progress in bilateral ties.
Dr. Barai noted that while the US does have a trade deficit with India, the imposition of a 25% “reciprocal duty,” particularly linked to India’s Russian oil imports, was excessive and politically driven. “A calibrated economic approach would have made more sense—perhaps a duty around 15%, not 25%,” he said, emphasizing that India has become an unintended casualty of inconsistent US policies.
Highlighting disparities, he pointed out that China continues to import more Russian oil without comparable penalties due to its leverage over rare earth metals, which are critical for US and European industries. Several European nations also import Russian energy with minimal tariffs, he noted. “So why single out India when others face much lower duties?” he questioned.
Dr. Barai attributed these policy decisions to a small circle within the Trump administration, including the president himself, trade adviser Peter Navarro, and immigration hardliner Stephen Miller. He added that many lawmakers privately opposed the tariffs but remained silent due to fear of political retaliation.
On the impact for India, Dr. Barai stressed that the country cannot entirely cut off Russian oil, which still accounts for about 35% of its supply, while also sourcing energy from the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for handling US pressure diplomatically, balancing India’s energy needs and national interest.
Despite the challenges with the US, Dr. Barai highlighted India’s rising global stature, citing stronger engagement with Europe, a free trade pact with the UK, enhanced ties with Africa, and a defence agreement with Australia. He concluded that while India is increasingly respected internationally, Washington remains an exception, and resolution of the tariff dispute is critical to thawing bilateral relations.