Opposition Critiques Modi Government Over US Imposed Tariffs
Opposition leaders have attacked PM Modi’s government for the 27% U.S. tariff on Indian exports, warning of potential economic devastation in key sectors like auto and pharmaceuticals. They demand swift government action to address this issue, while the ruling party emphasizes India’s independent foreign policy.
On Thursday, Opposition leaders criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government regarding the recent 27% reciprocal tariff imposed by the United States on Indian exports. Congress lawmaker Rahul Gandhi asserted that this tariff will significantly harm the Indian economy, particularly affecting the auto, pharmaceutical, and agricultural sectors. He demanded to know from the government what actions are being taken against this tariff imposition.
During a session in the Lok Sabha, Mr. Gandhi reiterated that the imposed tariff would devastate key industries in India. He referenced a historical comment made by his grandmother, former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, emphasizing a principled stance in foreign policy.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the Modi administration, framing the tariff as evidence of the U.S. prioritizing business interests, leading to a detrimental situation for India. He stated that the friendship exhibited between Modi and U.S. officials has resulted in unfavorable conditions for the Indian economy, especially in sectors reliant on exports.
Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi introduced an adjournment motion in Lok Sabha to call for urgent discussions concerning the economic impact of these tariffs. He underscored the potential negative consequences for competitiveness in price-sensitive sectors, urging the government to take swift diplomatic measures to protect Indian exporters.
In the Rajya Sabha, AAP lawmaker Raghav Chadha proposed delaying approvals for U.S. billionaires like Elon Musk’s Starlink internet services as leverage to negotiate with the Trump administration over the tariffs. Chadha expressed concern over the potential for significant GDP losses resulting from the tariff changes.
Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia responded to Chadha’s proposal by emphasizing the government’s commitment to providing technology while ensuring consumer protection. He reaffirmed a focus on maintaining market opportunities for Indian consumers regardless of external pressures.
Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray highlighted the need for the government to maintain transparency with citizens on the potential impacts and mitigation strategies regarding the U.S. tariffs. He argued for open discussions in Parliament to address these pressing economic issues fully.
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant called for a firmer response from the government against the tariff imposition and critiqued the perceived flip-flop in U.S.-India relations under the Modi-Trump dynamic.
In contrast, BJP members insisted on India’s independent stance in foreign policy. Rajya Sabha member Dinesh Sharma reaffirmed that India will not succumb to external pressures. He emphasized the country’s established path toward self-reliance and economic resilience in light of these challenges.
BJP lawmaker Praveen Khandelwal stated that the government is engaged in ongoing discussions with the U.S. to address tariff implications and restore favorable trade relations. He expressed confidence in the government’s plans to manage the situation effectively.
The recent imposition of U.S. tariffs on Indian exports has sparked strong reactions from various Opposition leaders, who argue that this move poses significant threats to critical sectors of the Indian economy. There is a call for urgent government action to mitigate these effects. Meanwhile, the ruling party insists on maintaining India’s independent foreign policy and engages in ongoing diplomatic discussions to address the fallout from these tariffs. Ultimately, the situation presents a complex challenge for India’s economic landscape.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
