New Delhi, Aug 10, 2025 : Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has stirred political chatter with a sharp remark — “Sab ke boss to hum hain” — widely interpreted as a veiled attack in the backdrop of the ongoing US-India tariff dispute involving former US President Donald Trump.

While Singh refrained from directly naming Trump, the comment comes after Washington’s announcement of steep import duties, including a 50% tariff on certain Indian goods. The move has triggered diplomatic ripples, with opposition leaders seizing the opportunity to question the Centre’s handling of trade relations.

Political Reactions Heat Up
BJP leaders have largely maintained composure, avoiding personal references to foreign political figures, a style often associated with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s diplomacy. However, Singh’s indirect remark has drawn contrasting reactions — some viewing it as confidence in India’s negotiating power, others as an unnecessary provocation.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was quick to respond, alleging that the government was downplaying the impact of the tariffs. “This is a direct hit to our economy,” he said, urging transparency on ongoing trade talks. Several party members hinted that the government’s tough talk might be masking deeper economic vulnerabilities.

Opposition’s War of Words
Online and offline political sparring intensified following Singh’s statement. Social media saw sharp exchanges, with supporters applauding the Defence Minister’s nationalistic tone, while critics accused the government of “grandstanding” instead of engaging in serious diplomacy.

Public comments on the matter have ranged from lighthearted satire to scathing criticism. Some users argued that seasoned leaders avoid naming adversaries, while others mocked opposition leaders for “overreacting” to Singh’s wordplay.

The Tariff Flashpoint
The core of the controversy lies in the US imposing heavy tariffs on Indian exports, a decision analysts warn could dent sectors like steel, textiles, and electronics. While India has emerged as a key supplier of smartphones to the US — accounting for 99.2% of domestically sold units — experts say the new trade barriers could force a recalibration of export strategies.

Government insiders suggest that New Delhi is working on countermeasures, including targeted negotiations and diversification of trade partners. “We are confident that India’s interests will be protected,” a senior official stated.

Looking Ahead
With the vice-presidential election season adding political heat, Singh’s remark has ensured the tariff debate will remain in the headlines. For now, both sides are expected to continue their verbal jousts, with trade diplomacy playing out behind closed doors.

Whether the statement “Sab ke boss to hum hain” becomes a rallying cry or just another political soundbite will depend on how effectively the government manages the fallout from Trump’s tariff strike. One thing is certain — India’s trade and political discourse have just become a lot more intertwined.