Trump’s repost endorses offensive remark; India shouldn’t be collateral damage in US domestic politics: Former envoy

India should not become “collateral damage” in US domestic political debates, former envoy Arun Kumar Singh said, after Donald Trump reposted a controversial remark referring to India in derogatory terms.Speaking to CNBC-TV18, Singh said that while the post was originally made by another commentator, the act of sharing it carried weight. “By putting it out again, you’re sort of endorsing what was said there,” he noted.

He added that although the remark was tied to the US domestic debate on birthright citizenship, it still risked damaging perceptions in India. “From India’s point of view, we cannot accept being collateral damage in this process,” Singh said, urging greater sensitivity from partners that describe themselves as close allies.
Singh explained that such rhetoric is often driven by internal political considerations in the US, including attempts to influence the Supreme Court. However, he warned that repeated instances could have a “negative fallout in India”, potentially affecting the broader bilateral relationship.Pramit Pal Chaudhuri of Eurasia Group noted that despite periodic tensions, the structural elements of the relationship remain intact, with both sides continuing to engage on trade and strategic issues. Meanwhile, Harsh Pant, Vice President at ORF said ongoing negotiations reflect a pragmatic approach, with both countries factoring in geopolitical realities while advancing cooperation.

The controversy comes amid a wider backlash to Trump’s repost. India’s Ministry of External Affairs described the comments as “inappropriate” and in “poor taste”, stressing that they do not reflect the reality of ties built on mutual respect. Washington also sought to limit the damage, with a US Embassy spokesperson reiterating Trump’s view that India is “a great country”.

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The episode has drawn reactions beyond India, with China and Iran criticising the remarks and even US lawmakers expressing concern. Despite the row, India and the US continue to engage on trade, with recent talks in Washington highlighting both the challenges and the scope for agreement.

Singh emphasised that while rhetoric may fluctuate, both countries have historically ensured that cooperation in key areas continues. However, he cautioned that public messaging matters, particularly at a time when negotiations are ongoing and perceptions can influence outcomes.