Shashi Tharoor Calls for Independent India Policy, Warns Against Overreliance on US or China

Congress leader says India must safeguard its strategic autonomy and avoid becoming dependent on either global power.

New Delhi, July 27:

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has argued that India should maintain an independent foreign policy, cautioning that uncertainty in U.S. policies should not push New Delhi into closer strategic dependence on China.

In a recent opinion article, Tharoor said India’s long-term national interests would be best served by preserving strategic autonomy rather than aligning too closely with any major power. He maintained that changing geopolitical circumstances require India to make decisions based on its own priorities.

Tharoor pointed to policy decisions taken during former U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration, including tariffs on Indian exports, changes affecting trade preferences, stricter H-1B visa rules, and Washington’s engagement with Pakistan. He said such developments have raised questions about the consistency and reliability of the United States as a strategic partner.

However, he cautioned that these concerns should not be interpreted as a reason to soften India’s approach towards China. According to Tharoor, Beijing’s strategic objectives continue to differ significantly from New Delhi’s, and China does not regard India as an equal geopolitical partner.

He noted that sections of the business community have advocated a reassessment of India’s China policy, arguing that the country’s manufacturing sector and industries remain dependent on Chinese technology, raw materials, industrial components, supply chains, and investment. They believe reducing tensions could benefit India’s economic growth.

Despite acknowledging these economic realities, Tharoor stressed that commercial interests alone should not determine India’s foreign policy. He argued that excessive dependence on any single country could create strategic vulnerabilities in the future.

The Congress leader concluded that India should strengthen relations with a wide range of global partners while protecting its national security, economic interests, and diplomatic independence. He said a balanced and self-reliant foreign policy would be the most effective way to navigate intensifying global competition.