Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jan 6: Senior Congress leader and former Maharashtra chief minister Prithviraj Chavan has triggered a major political controversy with remarks drawing parallels between India and recent developments in Venezuela, prompting sharp reactions from the BJP and widespread criticism online.

Speaking to reporters, Chavan raised provocative questions about global power dynamics, asking whether India could face a situation similar to Venezuela and whether the United States could take extreme steps against India’s leadership. His comments were immediately seized upon by political opponents, who accused him of making irresponsible and sensational statements.

The remarks come at a time of heightened diplomatic tension following reports of the US considering steep tariff hikes on Indian exports. Chavan linked the issue to trade pressure from Washington, arguing that a proposed 50 per cent tariff would effectively halt India–US trade, particularly harming Indian exporters.

“Such high tariffs make trade unviable. It is effectively a trade blockade,” Chavan said, adding that India would be forced to explore alternative global markets to offset the losses. He further remarked that additional tariffs would have little impact as bilateral trade had already slowed significantly.

The BJP responded sharply, accusing Chavan of undermining India’s sovereignty and global standing. The controversy has also reignited criticism over his earlier remarks questioning India’s military preparedness and the outcome of Operation Sindoor, for which he had faced intense backlash last month.

Chavan’s latest comments have surfaced against the backdrop of a global geopolitical crisis following reports of a US-led covert operation involving Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife. The situation has fueled international debate and speculation, which critics say Chavan irresponsibly invoked in the Indian context.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has also added to the tension, warning that tariffs on India could be sharply increased if New Delhi does not reduce oil imports from Russia. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said higher tariffs would be “very bad” for India, even as he described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “good guy.”

The controversy surrounding Chavan’s remarks continues to escalate, with political observers noting that the episode could further sharpen partisan divides amid an already volatile geopolitical and economic environment.