Diplomatic relations are usually characterized as balancing acts, a tightrope walk over a high wire drawn tight between grievances and goodwill. The India–US relationship, one of the most consequential partnerships of the 21st century, is no stranger to such complexities. And Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has reminded us of that balance, reacting sharply to former US President Donald Trump’s latest “new tone” on India.
While Trump’s words now project warmth and friendship, Tharoor cautioned that the scars left by past actions, from heavy tariffs on Indian goods to verbal barbs, cannot be brushed aside with a few pleasant remarks. His take provides a sobering counterpoint to the wave of optimism that often follows such grand diplomatic statements.
Trump’s “Very Special” Relationship Remark
Recently, Trump referred to the India–US relationship as “very special.” He emphasized his personal bond with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, insisting there was “nothing to worry about.” Modi responded swiftly, reciprocating with an equally upbeat note, calling India and the US partners in a “forward-looking Comprehensive and Global Strategic Partnership.”
At face value, this exchange paints a rosy picture. But as Tharoor reminded everyone, diplomacy is never just about words; it is about actions and consequences felt by ordinary people.
Shashi Tharoor’s Cautious Response
In an interview with ANI, Tharoor acknowledged that Trump’s fresh tone should be welcomed but with caution. He noted that Modi was “very quick to respond” positively, and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reinforced the importance of the partnership. Yet, Tharoor stressed that beyond optics, “serious repair work” needs to be done by both governments.
“One can’t just forget and forgive so quickly,” he said, drawing attention to the “real consequences” Indians have faced due to tariffs.
The Tariffs That Hit Hard
Trump’s administration slapped steep tariffs on several categories of Indian exports, with rates going as high as 50 percent. These were not mere theoretical figures in policy papers; they had direct effects on exporters and workers in the homeland. These tariffs for many small- and medium-sized businesses eliminated competitiveness for one of their biggest export markets.
Tharoor’s point here is important. Rhetoric may shift overnight, but policy decisions have long-lasting aftershocks. The 50 percent tariffs were not merely a negotiating ploy; they were felt in terms of financial pressure by thousands of Indian businesses.
Insults That Left a Scar
In addition to economics, Tharoor reminded us of a second strain: public statements and insults aimed at India and its government. Whether it was comments regarding tariffs or general criticism, the tone tended to be condescending. Diplomacy thrives on respect, and those words left a bitter taste.
“I don’t think we can just completely forget either the 50 percent tariffs or the insults that have accompanied them,” Tharoor said.
Trump’s Temperament and the Risks Ahead
Another striking observation was about Trump’s temperament. Tharoor described it as “fairly mercurial,” pointing out that sudden swings in tone from warm to critical are not unusual for him. This volatility, according to Tharoor, means India cannot take Trump’s latest comments at face value without preparing for reversals.
Consistency matters. A partnership as important as India–US cannot be built on shifting sands of unpredictable statements.
A Plea for Balanced Optimism
So, where do India–US ties really stand? While on the one hand, the Prime Minister’s warm welcome indicates India’s desire to maintain the relationship as congenial and progressive, on the other hand, Shashi Tharoor’s words inject a dose of reality that reminds us that old tensions and issues left unresolved can’t be simply pushed under the carpet.
India and America enjoy deep economic, strategic, and cultural ties that extend beyond the current leadership. From defense cooperation to a successful diaspora, the relationship has many pillars of strength. Trust, however, builds up over time, and that means also accepting past resentments as well as seizing opportunities for the future.
Conclusion: Repair Work Ahead
Tharoor’s are not dismissals of Trump’s new tone but a request to put things in proper perspective. Diplomacy is not forgetting the past but learning from it. For India, that means acknowledging tariffs and insults while also welcoming renewed warmth with caution.
The India–US story is far bigger than any one leader’s words. But as Tharoor highlighted, leaders and diplomats on both sides still have “serious repair work” to do. Until then, optimism must be tempered with memory, and friendship must be backed by fairness.
