Editor,
Indian news channels and headlines today, July 31, 2025, are dominated by the unexpected announcement of a 25% tariff duty on Indian goods by the United States. This decision was made by the US President, whom Prime Minister Narendra Modi refers to as a “good friend,” through his infamous tweet diplomacy. The current US administration under Donald Trump differs significantly from earlier approaches to diplomacy, which were often characterized by charm and subtlety, even while working through covert operations. That delicate balance has vanished, replaced by what can only be described as mafia-style diplomacy, where tariffs serve as the new method of coercion.
In Trump’s America, the ideals of philanthropy and generosity in foreign relations have been discarded in favor of direct deals and negotiations. This new world order has left global leaders scrambling to adapt. The traditional Indian vision of being a ‘Vishwaguru’ or ‘World Teacher’ is largely ignored in this environment focused on transactional relationships. Diplomacy has become akin to haggling at a marketplace, where public scrutiny on negotiations is the norm.
Social media is buzzing with reactions regarding the costs of Modi’s friendly gestures towards Trump. It is suggested that Modi’s numerous ‘bear hugs’ may have led to the imposition of this hefty tariff-nicknamed a bear hug tax, with the idea that each hug might equate to a percentage increase in tariffs. Consequently, India faces a severe economic burden not due to any wrongdoing, but perhaps because Modi misjudged affection for strategic negotiations. Critics argue that despite his Gujarati heritage, Modi’s diplomatic skills may not measure up to what is needed in such high-stakes negotiations. It’s posited that the members of the Meghalaya Cabinet, particularly the more business-savvy officials, could teach Modi valuable lessons in effective governance and deal-making. There are calls for a delegation from Meghalaya, potentially backed by astute bureaucrats, to guide the central government in the intricacies of negotiations.
On another note, recent reports reveal troubling developments regarding our state’s forests. An agreement, originally signed in 2014 to designate Law Mawpat as a protected forest, was revoked in 2019. This decision allowed plots of land to be allocated to numerous MLAs, whose names remain undisclosed to the public. This agreement offered hope for the protection of our forests and the environment, but now it appears that self-interest among leaders has led to greed and a disregard for morality.
Questions abound about why such a crucial agreement was annulled. What prompted one Chief Executive Member (CEM) to uphold the agreement while another discarded it? Have traditional leaders been complacent in their oversight of local governance? Moreover, why are these plots being handed to MLAs? Such actions undermine the fundamental purpose of the District Council, which is meant to protect the rights and customs of our tribal communities and manage effective governance.
A poignant reminder of our connection to these forests comes from memories shared by our ancestors’ deep respect for nature and the value of environmental stewardship. With climate change posing significant challenges, the urgency to maintain green spaces for future generations cannot be overstated. It is disheartening to witness current leaders who appear detached from these principles, jeopardizing the well-being of those who elected them by failing to protect our natural heritage.
Lastly, I wish to express my concern regarding ongoing controversies within the Mawkhar Presbyterian Church. A senior pastor has been suspended by the Synod due to issues of discipline. However, he has continued to function, supported by church committee members, which raises serious questions about their leadership and integrity. The committee’s perceived weakness has led to a cultural environment of defiance, challenging the authority that is supposed to guide the church faithful.
The implications of this situation are troubling, as it reveals moral and spiritual deficiencies within church leadership. The church must reclaim its principles and adhere to the teachings it promotes before it is too late.
Yours,
Toki Blah,
Jennifer Dkhar,
Name withheld on request,
Via email.
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2025/08/01/expensive-modi-bear-hugs/
Category: LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
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Publish Date: 2025-08-01 02:15:00
