CPI General Secretary D Raja accuses Prime Minister Narendra Modi of yielding to US pressure on tariffs and Russian oil, questioning India’s global standing.

The Communist Party of India (CPI) on Sunday launched a sharp critique of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of giving in to pressure from Donald Trump on issues ranging from trade tariffs to India’s oil purchases from Russia.

Addressing the CPI’s centenary celebrations, party General Secretary D. Raja claimed that India’s global image has weakened under the current government. He said the country, once viewed as an advocate of peace, independence and development, was now appearing submissive in international affairs.

Raja alleged that Prime Minister Modi remained silent in the face of repeated pressure from Washington, describing the situation as India yielding to what he termed “American imperialist influence.” He cautioned that continued compliance could erode the Prime Minister’s moral authority to lead the nation.

The CPI leader also took aim at the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, questioning their historical role during India’s freedom struggle and alleging they failed to oppose colonial rule. In a broader critique of US foreign policy, Raja referred to American actions and threats involving countries such as Venezuela, Mexico, Cuba, Colombia and Iran.

Raja’s remarks reflect the Left’s long-standing opposition to close alignment with US strategic interests and its emphasis on non-alignment in foreign policy. With global tensions rising and trade pressures mounting, such criticism highlights ideological divides over how India should balance economic pragmatism with strategic autonomy. For policymakers, the debate underscores the challenge of managing global partnerships without appearing dependent or politically vulnerable at home