The Congress party criticized the Indian government for its reported trade understanding with the United States, labeling it as biased and harmful to farmers. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh expressed concerns that the deal heavily favors immediate imports over uncertain export benefits in the distant future, emphasizing the need for a more balanced agreement.
Ramesh highlighted the disparity in tariff structures, pointing out that the US frequently adjusts duties while India seems to be making substantial concessions. He noted that farmers from various states, including Jammu and Kashmir, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra, fear negative impacts on agriculture and rural livelihoods due to the agreement.
Congress MP Manish Tewari echoed these worries, questioning the fairness of the deal amid reports that the US might impose tariffs on Indian goods while India has eliminated duties on numerous items. Tewari emphasized the importance of transparency in trade negotiations to clarify the terms of the agreement and ensure a level playing field.
Ramesh emphasized that concerns raised by opposition leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge are based on factual analysis rather than political posturing. He criticized the government for allowing disruptions in Parliament and failing to address unwarranted attacks on opposition figures and former Prime Ministers.
