Opposition leaders criticized the Modi government over a 27% US tariff on Indian exports, claiming it might devastate sectors like automotive and pharmaceuticals. Calls for urgent government action were made during parliamentary sessions, with concerns over economic impacts highlighted. Suggestions included leveraging negotiations using US companies as bargaining chips, while ruling party members defended India’s independent policies amid ongoing trade discussions.
Several opposition leaders criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government for the imposition of a 27% reciprocal tariff on Indian exports by the United States. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi highlighted that this decision could significantly harm the Indian economy, especially affecting industries such as automotive, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. He inquired about the government’s actions regarding these tariffs during a session in the Lok Sabha.
Gandhi recalled a quote from his grandmother, former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, emphasizing India’s straightforward approach to foreign policy. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also criticized PM Modi, suggesting that the situation demonstrated America’s tendency to act like a businessman, with India becoming ensnared in this dynamic.
In the Lok Sabha, Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi called for an adjournment motion to discuss the urgent economic implications of the tariffs, stating the tariffs may particularly hurt sectors like textiles and pharmaceuticals, decreasing their competitiveness. He urged immediate diplomatic and trade actions to protect Indian exporters and their workers.
Raghav Chadha from the Aam Aadmi Party proposed that the government should stall approvals for Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite services as leverage to renegotiate tariffs. He expressed concern that the increased tariffs could lead to a significant reduction in India’s GDP.
Union communications minister Jyotiraditya Scindia responded, focusing on consumer needs and technology access, and reaffirming the government’s commitment to security as well as providing opportunities for Indian consumers. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray criticized the government for not adequately informing the public about the risks posed by the tariffs and the measures being taken.
Thackeray suggested that more comprehensive discussions should have been held in Parliament regarding this issue. Additionally, Shiv Sena MP Arvind Sawant emphasized the need for the government to take a strong stance against the US administration’s actions, criticizing the perceived friendship between Modi and Trump.
In contrast, BJP Rajya Sabha member Dinesh Sharma defended India’s independent foreign policy, asserting the country will form its policies without external influence. He noted that India has implemented measures for self-reliance and is advancing as the world’s fifth-largest economy. Fellow BJP lawmaker Praveen Khandelwal added that the government is likely to consider the broader impacts of the tariffs while engaging in ongoing discussions with the United States.
The opposition’s outcry regarding the US-imposed tariffs highlights significant economic concerns for India, especially in critical sectors. Leaders have urged the government to adopt immediate countermeasures and communicate effectively with the public. While opposition leaders express criticism, members of the ruling party reaffirm India’s capacity for independent policy-making and ongoing negotiations with the US. The discourse emphasizes the need for strategic responses to safeguard the Indian economy amidst international trade challenges. Additionally, suggestions for leveraging negotiations underscore the tension between economic interests and foreign relations.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
