India to Trump: Never Needed Permission Sovereign Energy Choices Amid U.S. Waiver Claims: Syed Irfan Hashmi

Srinagar,Jammu & Kashmir – March 7, 2026– Socio-political activist Syed Irfan Hashmi today issued the following statement in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s assertion of granting Indian refiners a “30-day waiver” to purchase Russian oil amid ongoing geopolitical tensions:

India has never depended on permission from any country to secure its energy future. As the world’s third-largest oil consumer and an emerging superpower, we prioritize our 1.4 billion citizens’ needs over foreign diktats. In February 2026 alone, Russia remained India’s largest crude oil supplier, accounting for over 35% of imports a pragmatic choice ensuring affordable fuel and economic stability despite Western sanctions and supply volatilities.

The U.S. waiver narrative is a relic of outdated unilateralism. Despite rising tensions along the Hormuz Strait threatened by Iranian actions. India’s energy supply chains remain secure, diversified, and resilient. We buy from reliable partners like Russia to shield our economy from shocks, not out of charity or concessions.

To President Trump: America, tend to your own defenses against Iranian missiles. India stands tall, independent, and unapologetic in a multipolar world.”

Syed Irfan Hashmi, a vocal advocate for Jammu & Kashmir’s socio-political discourse and South Asian autonomy, urged global powers to respect sovereign decisions that foster peace and prosperity.