India’s opposition Congress party has strongly criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for remaining silent in the face of US President Donald Trump’s recent tariff threat, accusing him of showing weakness that could hurt India’s national interest.

Congress leader and Lok Sabha opposition head Rahul Gandhi condemned Trump’s decision to impose a 50 per cent tariff on Indian goods, calling it a form of “blackmail” aimed at coercing New Delhi into an unfair trade agreement.

“Trump’s 50% tariff is economic blackmail — an attempt to bully India into an unfair trade deal. PM Modi better not let his weakness override the interests of the Indian people,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter).

According to Hindustan Times, party leaders accused the Modi government of not only avoiding naming Trump, but also failing to issue a strong response to what they called repeated hostile actions from the US administration.

“A weak prime minister is dangerous for the country,” a Congress statement said.

Citing Trump’s recent tariff hike and past actions, including inflammatory remarks on India, interference in regional issues, and the arrest of Indian nationals, the Congress leadership questioned why Modi had remained passive.

Rahul Gandhi further alleged that Modi’s reluctance to respond to Trump stems from ongoing investigations into the Adani Group in the United States. He claimed there are fears that financial ties between Modi, Adani, and Russian oil deals could be exposed.

“India, please understand: The reason PM Modi cannot stand up to President Trump despite his repeated threats is the ongoing U.S. investigation into Adani. One threat is to expose the financial links between Modi, AA, and Russian oil deals. Modi’s hands are tied,” Gandhi posted on X.

The Congress party called on the prime minister to show courage and issue a firm, unequivocal response to Trump’s threats, warning that silence at this juncture undermines India’s dignity and global standing.