Gowda Rebukes Trump, Calls ‘Dead Economy’ Remark ‘Blind or Ill-Informed’

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Former Prime Minister H. D. Deve Gowda has issued a strong rebuke to the U.S. President Donald Trump over his recent comments describing the Indian economy as “dead.” In a statement released Friday, Gowda, a veteran politician and member of the Rajya Sabha (Council of States), called Trump’s remarks “baseless and ill-tempered,” asserting that the U.S. President was either “blind or ill-informed” about India’s economic standing. This sharp criticism follows Trump’s imposition of a 25% tariff on Indian goods and a post on social media platform Truth Social where he suggested India and Russia could “take their dead economies down together.”

Gowda highlighted India’s robust economic performance, noting that it is currently one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world and ranks as the fifth largest globally. He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government for its firm stance in protecting the nation’s interests, particularly in the agricultural sector and for small and medium businesses. “I am very happy and proud that India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has not compromised our national interest. It has not blinked to Mr. Trump’s bullying and has shown that it will never be dictated by threat,” Gowda stated.

The former prime minister’s comments come amidst a broader political reaction in India to Trump’s tariffs and statements. Gowda also took the opportunity to caution some opposition leaders in India who he said had “rejoiced” in Trump’s remarks, urging them not to act as “deluded spokespersons.” He emphasized that India is a sovereign and democratic nation, capable of overcoming any challenges that come its way.

Gowda further described Trump as a “volatile, uncivil, and irresponsible” head of state, a behavior he said was not unique to India but was a pattern seen with many other nations, including long-standing U.S. allies. The veteran leader concluded by stating that even a small Indian trader or a poor farmer could teach Trump lessons in dignity and integrity, underscoring the deep-seated pride and resilience he sees in the Indian people. The escalating trade tensions and sharp diplomatic exchanges between the two nations are a key development to watch.