Bhartiya Kisan Union (Charuni) National President Gurnam Singh Charuni expressed disapproval of the proposed US-India trade deal, labeling it as unfair. Charuni highlighted that a nationwide protest by all farmer unions is scheduled for June 23 in opposition to the agreement. He emphasized that the trade deal favors the US due to its larger size and population, potentially leading to detrimental consequences for Indian farmers.
Charuni raised concerns about the implications of the agreement, stating that Indian farmers may face challenges competing with American produce sold at lower prices. He warned that such a deal could jeopardize Indian agriculture, forcing farmers to sell their lands to benefitting companies. Additionally, Charuni pointed out the potential risks associated with genetically modified imported farm produce, which could impact public health and economic independence.
The farmer leader announced plans for widespread protests on June 23, including displaying black flags in all cities and convening a meeting of farmer union representatives in Chandigarh. The aim is to strategize a large-scale agitation similar to the 2020-2021 farmers’ protest. Charuni emphasized that letters have been dispatched to relevant Union Ministries and the American Embassy, asserting the rejection of the agreement and demanding its immediate cessation.
In related developments, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) disclosed that Prime Minister Modi and US President Donald Trump discussed various issues during their meeting at the G7 Summit in France. The topics included resolving conflicts in West Asia, progress in the India-US interim trade deal, and enhancing bilateral cooperation in defense, strategic technologies, energy, and trade sectors.
