The controversy erupted after Trump posted a four-page transcript of comments made by podcaster Michael Savage on America’s birthright citizenship. In the transcript, Savage accused people from India and China of abusing the provision, stating, “A baby here becomes an instant citizen, and then they bring the entire family in from China or India or some other hellhole on the planet.”
India’s foreign ministry responded without naming Trump or Savage, but issued a firm statement rejecting the remarks. “They certainly do not reflect the reality of the India-US relationship, which has long been based on mutual respect and shared interests,” the ministry said, underlining the official stance on the issue.
The remarks triggered a political furore in India, with the main opposition Indian National Congress condemning them as “extremely insulting and anti-Indian.” The party urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take up the matter directly with the US President and register a strong objection, stating this in a post on X.
The incident comes amid a period of strained relations between New Delhi and Washington. Trump has exerted pressure on India to halt purchases of Russian oil, arguing that such transactions help fund the Ukraine war. However, in March, the United States temporarily eased sanctions to allow India to procure Russian oil stranded at sea, a move aimed at averting a crisis triggered by the war on Iran.
Trade tensions have also marked the relationship. Trump imposed 50% duties on Indian goods last year, including a 25% penalty linked to India’s purchase of Russian oil. In February, these tariffs were reduced to 18% as part of an ongoing trade agreement, the details of which are still under negotiation. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to visit India next month, a trip seen as a significant step toward resetting bilateral ties.
Since returning to power, Trump’s administration has intensified its crackdown on illegal immigration, with the President repeatedly alleging that immigrants take jobs from American citizens. He has also criticised the H-1B visa programme, widely used to bring skilled foreign workers—primarily from India—to the United States. While supporters argue the programme attracts global talent, critics claim it undermines opportunities for American workers.
Savage’s remarks, shared by Trump, echoed similar sentiments. “I used to be a great supporter of Indians in India until I opened my eyes up to what’s going on here. White men need not apply to jobs in the state of California. Nevermind in high tech. I don’t care what your qualifications are. You’re not getting a job at High Tech in California,” he said, without offering evidence.
He further claimed that white workers face exclusion because “almost all the internal mechanisms are set up to run by Indians and Chinese.” Savage added that his comments were prompted by arguments presented before the US Supreme Court, which is currently hearing a challenge to Trump’s executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship for children born in the United States to undocumented immigrants and certain temporary visitors.
The episode underscores deepening sensitivities around immigration, trade, and diplomatic engagement, as both nations navigate a complex phase in their strategic partnership.
About The Author
Comment List