In Shorts
- Congress says the US granting India a 30 day waiver to buy Russian oil threatens the country’s strategic autonomy.
- Opposition leaders accuse the government of allowing Washington to influence India’s energy decisions.
- The waiver comes amid global oil supply concerns triggered by tensions in West Asia.
India’s opposition party Congress has sharply criticised the central government after the United States granted a temporary waiver allowing Indian refiners to continue purchasing Russian crude oil.
The waiver, which is valid for 30 days, was issued by the US Treasury as part of efforts to stabilise global energy supplies during rising tensions in West Asia and disruptions to oil shipments. The decision allows Indian companies to keep importing certain Russian oil cargoes amid concerns about supply shortages and rising prices.
However, Congress leaders claim the situation reflects a worrying shift in India’s foreign policy autonomy.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said the development suggests that India’s strategic independence and national sovereignty are under serious threat. According to him, the language used by Washington in granting “permission” or a “waiver” to India indicates that the country’s diplomatic space is shrinking.
Kharge also argued that such terms are typically used for countries under sanctions rather than for nations considered equal partners in the global order. He accused the government of gradually surrendering India’s decision making authority in areas ranging from trade and data to long term international partnerships.
Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi also raised concerns about the direction of India’s foreign policy. He said decisions related to energy and international relations should be guided by India’s national interests and democratic values rather than pressure from external powers.
The criticism comes at a time when global energy markets remain volatile due to geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions in key oil producing regions. The United States said the waiver was intended to ensure that oil continues to flow into global markets and to prevent a sudden spike in prices that could hurt multiple economies.
India has significantly increased its purchases of Russian oil since the start of the Russia Ukraine conflict, largely due to discounted prices offered by Moscow. The imports have become an important component of India’s energy strategy, helping the country secure affordable fuel for its large and growing economy.
The latest political clash highlights the broader debate in India about balancing energy security, geopolitical relationships and the country’s longstanding policy of strategic autonomy in global affairs.
Leave a Reply