Saturday, March 29, 2025
‘Modi Didn’t Call, Now Old Deal Slips Away’ – US Makes Big Claim Against India
Washington/New Delhi: January 9, 2026
A stunning revelation has emerged regarding trade relations between the United States and India. US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick claims that India lost a major tariff deal simply because Prime Minister Narendra Modi failed to call President Donald Trump on time.
“The Train Has Already Left the Station”
Speaking on the ‘All-In Podcast,’ Lutnick said President Trump treats trade deals like a “first come, first served” policy. “Whoever shows up first gets the best deal,” he stated. “India was explicitly told they had three specific Wednesdays to negotiate, and PM Modi needed to speak directly with the President. But they weren’t comfortable doing so, so Modi didn’t call.”
Lutnick added that once the deadline passed, the US moved forward with deals alongside countries like Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam. Taunting India, he recounted: “When India called a few weeks later saying they were ready, I told them, ‘You’re ready for the train that already left the station before you arrived.'”
Tough Road Ahead for India?
The US minister made it clear that the deal once on India’s table is no longer available. India now stands at the back of the line and won’t get the same favorable terms or benefits.
Key Points:
Time Limit Missed: The US says India’s assigned deadline has expired.
Tariff Threat: Donald Trump has already signaled plans to impose high tariffs on India.
India’s Silence: No official response from the Indian government has surfaced yet on this serious claim.
This development comes amid rapidly shifting global trade dynamics, with the US adopting a hardline stance under its “America First” policy.
