Washington, DC, USA: Peter Navarro’s latest remarks have triggered strong reactions, with many accusing him of using inflammatory and divisive language.
White House adviser Peter Navarro, the chief strategist behind President Trump’s tariff agenda, escalated his criticism of India during a recent appearance on Fox News. He alleged that India’s Brahmin community has been benefiting from the nation’s trade in Russian oil.
When asked whether the 50% tariffs imposed on Indian goods were enough to weaken Russian President Vladimir Putin, Navarro clarified that Washington is not looking to raise them further. He explained:
“We’ve already placed 50% tariffs on China as well, and pushing those numbers any higher could damage the U.S. economy.” He went on to brand India the “Maharaja of Tariffs.”
Navarro also targeted New Delhi’s growing role in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, remarking:
“Prime Minister Modi is a strong leader, but I cannot understand why he would align with Putin and Xi Jinping while leading the world’s largest democracy. To the Indian people, I would say this: your Brahmins are profiting while ordinary citizens are paying the price — and that must stop.”
Earlier in the broadcast, Navarro expressed optimism that the U.S. Supreme Court would uphold the Trump administration’s tariff measures.
The tariff burden has already taken a toll on India’s economy. Industries such as textiles, seafood, and jewelry have been hit hard. According to Crisil Ratings, Indian shrimp exports could fall by 15–18% this fiscal year due to the hikes, putting a $5 billion trade segment at risk. Meanwhile, foreign institutional investors pulled out ₹34,993 crore from Indian markets in August, marking the largest monthly capital outflow of the year.
Navarro’s sharp words have stirred political debate, though Indian officials have refrained from issuing a response. New Delhi continues to closely monitor U.S. policy statements.
At the same time, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently in China, is expected to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Tianjin.
