Navarro’s ‘Brahmin’ remarks reflect utter ignorance: Suhag A. Shukla

Suhag A. Shukla, Executive Director of the Hindu American Foundation (HAF), strongly criticized Peter Navarro, former U.S. trade adviser, for his remarks linking India’s oil trade with Russia to “Brahmin profiteering.” She described his comments as “utter ignorance at best and plain racism at worst,” arguing they reflect colonial-era stereotypes rather than informed economic analysis. Shukla noted that such rhetoric is not only offensive but also distracts from serious policy discussions on trade, tariffs, and international relations. By invoking caste inappropriately, Navarro perpetuated Orientalist tropes that undermine constructive dialogue and factual debate. She emphasized that reducing complex global energy decisions to cultural caricatures distorts reality and fuels prejudice. The response highlights a broader concern over the use of outdated and harmful cultural generalizations in policy debates, stressing the need for informed, respectful, and evidence-based discourse in addressing global economic and diplomatic challenges.

Source : https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/navarros-brahmin-remarks-reflect-utter-ignorance-suhag-a-shukla/article70008303.ece