NEW DELHI ( The COW News Digital) The Indian opposition has strongly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi following reports that India has halved its oil imports from Russia under U.S. pressure. Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accused Modi of bowing to President Donald Trump, claiming the decision reflects fear of the U.S. rather than India’s strategic autonomy.
In a social media post, Rahul Gandhi stated, “Prime Minister Modi allowed Trump to decide and announce that India would stop purchasing Russian oil. This clearly shows that he is acting out of fear rather than national interest.” He added that despite repeated diplomatic slights, Modi continued to send congratulatory messages and failed to defend India’s position during international forums, including the recent Gaza conference.
The criticism was echoed by other senior Congress figures. Supriya Shrinate labeled Modi as “Narendra the Complete Surrender,” while Jairam Ramesh, Congress General Secretary for Communications, also condemned the government for halting Russian oil imports, arguing that the move undermines India’s energy independence.
The controversy follows remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who told the media at the Oval Office that Modi had assured him India would stop buying Russian oil. However, White House officials later clarified to Reuters that India has so far reduced imports by 50 percent, leaving questions about whether full suspension will take place in the future.
Analysts suggest that India’s decision highlights the growing influence of U.S. diplomatic and economic pressure on New Delhi, challenging claims of a fully independent foreign policy. While the Modi government maintains that the decision aligns with India’s national interest, opposition leaders argue it signals subordination to foreign powers.
The issue has sparked debate across social and mainstream media, with citizens and policymakers divided over whether the oil reduction represents a pragmatic response to geopolitical realities or a compromise of sovereignty.
Despite the criticism, government sources insist that India will continue phased adjustments in energy sourcing to balance international obligations with domestic energy needs. The Ministry of External Affairs has yet to clarify whether India plans to completely halt Russian oil imports in the near future.
This development adds to mounting tensions between India’s ruling party and opposition, as the Congress party intensifies scrutiny of Modi’s foreign policy decisions and alignment with global powers.
