Anti – US sentiments in India

It is no secret that India’s condition is deteriorating day by day as the active Covid-19 cases are at an all-time high with a total of 17.3 M as of 26 April 2021. The fact that only 1.6% of people out of a total of 136.64 M are fully vaccinated isn’t making India’s ongoing battle with the deadly virus any easier. Rising cases, a huge population, and limited Covid-19 resources is a terrible combination as the country is facing a massive shortage of oxygen cylinders, ICU and ventilator beds, injections, and medicines.

It is, in times like these, that other countries are expected to lend a helping hand to each other, regardless of their political and military histories. We witnessed countries coming to each other’s aid as France and Germany donated masks and medical equipment to Italy. In fact, when Covid cases were constantly rising in the United States and numerous people were dying, India lifted the ban imposed on the export of hydroxychloroquine in order to save various Americans.

However, the American government failed to live up to the expectations of the Indian government as Joe Biden, the President of the United States, refused to lift the ban induced on the export of raw materials that India based Serum Institute claims is of utmost importance in increasing the production of Covishield when India asked the United States to reciprocate the favor.

On being asked as to when the Biden administration would consider lifting the ban on the export of vaccine raw materials, in compliance with India’s request, State Department spokesperson Ned Price said… “the United States first and foremost is engaged in an ambitious and effective and, so far, successful effort to vaccinate the American people.” He also added, “we have a special responsibility to the American people.” In regards to helping other countries, he stated” We will, of course, do as much as we can, consistent with our first obligation.”

Along with a rise of Covid-19 cases, Anti-Us sentiments are at an all-time high as Indians are severely criticizing the Biden- Harris administration for prioritizing the States’ needs before the needs of a country that is suffering more than any country in the world. The American government has forgotten humanity in this inane time of crisis.

It is vital to note that 84 million people have been fully vaccinated and 40% of people have received their first shot in the US. In fact, even children of 16-18 years of age have been fully vaccinated. As far as Coronavirus are concerned, they are relatively stable. These statistics are a clear indication that the United States is on the path to recovering from the after-effects of the virus.

Over the past few years, the whole world has been a witness to India and the United States’ growing and evolving friendship. Trump’s visit to India in early-2020 prior to Covid lockdowns bears testament to this fact. While the Biden administration has now agreed to deploy important and vital resources immediately for India, it will definitely take some time for Anti-US sentiments to calm down in India.

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