Trump’s remarks spark fresh India–US tensions
The controversy also emerges at a sensitive moment, as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is preparing for an upcoming visit to India.
KATHMANDU: A controversial social media post by former US President Donald Trump has triggered a new wave of diplomatic friction between India and the United States, drawing sharp reactions from officials and lawmakers.
New Delhi strongly rejected Trump’s comments, calling them “inappropriate and disconnected from reality.” In the post shared late Wednesday, Trump criticized the constitutional provision granting birthright citizenship in the US, while singling out Indian immigrants with allegations that they deprive native-born Americans of jobs and lack English proficiency. He further escalated the controversy by referring to India as a “hell.”
Responding firmly, Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal described the remarks as “uninformed, inappropriate, and in poor taste.” He stressed that such statements do not reflect the true nature of India–US relations, which are built on mutual respect and shared strategic interests.
The backlash extended to American lawmakers of Indian origin. Democratic Congressman Ami Bera condemned Trump’s remarks as “offensive, ignorant, and beneath the dignity of the office,” adding that Trump has never understood the struggles faced by immigrant families.
The Hindu American Foundation also denounced the post, labeling it “hateful and racist,” and warning that such rhetoric could deepen xenophobia and social divisions.
Trump’s comments come amid his broader push for stricter immigration policies, particularly targeting visa programs widely used by Indian tech professionals.
Analysts say this stance risks further complicating bilateral ties.
Tensions between the two countries have surfaced before under Trump’s leadership, including trade disputes and his criticism of India’s stance during regional conflicts.
His latest remarks now cast fresh uncertainty over long-standing US efforts to strengthen ties with India, especially in the context of strategic competition with China.
The controversy also emerges at a sensitive moment, as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is preparing for an upcoming visit to India.
Diplomatic observers warn that the episode could pose challenges to ongoing efforts aimed at reinforcing bilateral cooperation.
