Kamal Haasan slams Trump over 'India has US's permission' remark
What's the story
Actor-politician Kamal Haasan has slammed United States President Donald Trump after a US official claimed Washington had given India "permission" to buy Russian oil. The claim was made by Scott Bessent, US Treasury Secretary and Trump's aide, in an interview with Fox Business. Bessent said the US had asked India to stop buying sanctioned Russian oil this fall, which India complied with.
Social media response
We no longer take orders from distant foreign shores: Haasan
In response to Bessent's comments, Haasan took to the social media platform X to address the US President directly. He wrote, "Dear Mr President, We, the people of India, belong to a free and sovereign nation. We no longer take orders from distant foreign shores." He further added that mutual respect between sovereign nations is essential for lasting global peace and wished peace and prosperity for the US.
Twitter Post
Kamal Haasan's post tagging US President
To
— Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) March 7, 2026
The President of the United States of America @POTUS
Dear Mr. President,
We, the people of India, belong to a free and sovereign nation. We no longer take orders from distant foreign shores.
Please mind your own business to the best of your abilities.
Mutual respect…
Energy security
India assures energy supplies secure amid crude oil price surge
The Indian government has assured that the country's energy supplies are secure despite disruptions caused by international conflicts. It said India has diversified its crude oil sources from 27 to 40 countries, ensuring multiple alternative supply routes. Officials have also said India does not seek permission from any country to buy Russian oil.
Political criticism
Congress reacts to Bessent's statement
The Congress party has criticized the government over Bessent's "permission" remark. Rahul Gandhi, leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, said India's foreign policy should be based on its history and spiritual ethos. He added that what is being witnessed is not policy but the exploitation of a compromised individual.