4 hours ago
Last Updated:August 14, 2025, 16:38 IST
The remark came after Bessent, speaking to Fox Business on Tuesday, called ongoing trade talks with India as difficult
Senior ministry officials briefed Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on the US-India trade negotiations and tariffs. (Image: PTI/File)
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Thursday responded sharply to remarks by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who had called India as “a bit recalcitrant" during trade talks with Washington.
In a post on X, Tharoor wrote, “I hear some people are accusing India of being ‘recalcitrant’. I say, far better to be recalcitrant, than to be tractable, submissive or acquiescent in injustice."
I hear some people are accusing India of being “recalcitrant“. I say, far better to be recalcitrant, than to be tractable, submissive or acquiescent in injustice.— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) August 14, 2025
The remark came after Bessent, speaking to Fox Business on Tuesday, called ongoing trade talks with India as difficult.
While discussing the US administration’s aim to finalise major tariff and trade agreements by the end of October, Bessent added, “The big trade deals that aren’t done or agreed, Switzerland is still around, India has been a bit recalcitrant."
Bessent acknowledged the deadline was “aspirational" and noted that teams led by US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer were working to finalise outstanding deals. He added, “We will have agreed on substantial terms with all the substantial countries."
US President Donald Trump has announced tariffs totalling to 50 per cent on India. These include an additional 25 per cent duty on Indian purchases of Russian oil, set to come into effect from 27 August.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has criticised the move, calling it “unjustified and unreasonable".
In an official statement, the MEA said, “Like any major economy, India will take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security." The new tariffs were announced just weeks before a scheduled visit by a US trade delegation.
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view commentsLocation : First Published:August 14, 2025, 16:03 IST
News world 'Better To Be Recalcitrant Than Tractable': Tharoor Hits Back At US Treasury Secretary's Jibe
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