New Delhi: Following the US Supreme Court’s ruling that limited former President Donald Trump’s power to impose global tariffs, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi renewed his criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, claiming that the interim India-US trade deal exposes the government’s compromises. Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, warned that Modi would be unable to renegotiate the trade deal and would “surrender again.”
Gandhi Questions Modi’s Negotiating Position
Gandhi tweeted, “The PM is compromised. His betrayal now stands exposed. He can’t renegotiate. He will surrender again.” The Supreme Court, in a 6-3 verdict, stated that the Trump administration had overstepped its authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) of 1977 by imposing broad-based tariffs. In response, Trump announced a temporary 10 per cent global tariff under Section 122 of the Trade Act, 1974, allowing a short-term import surcharge to address trade imbalances.
Shiv Sena MP Questions India’s Trade Approach
Shiv Sena-UBT MP Priyanka Chaturvedi also criticised the government for rushing into the interim trade agreement before the US Supreme Court’s verdict. She pointed out that while the US imports to India remain untaxed, India now faces a 10 per cent duty following the court decision. Praising Brazil for maintaining trade sovereignty despite high tariffs, she described the court ruling as a “vindication” of her concerns.
Chaturvedi further highlighted the loss of leverage on purchasing Russian oil, a strategic commodity. She tweeted, “After the US Court intervention, China like the rest of the world is at 10% tariff but hasn’t signed up its rights to purchasing Russian oil so it is lapping up the cheap oil with no consequences. While India, too will be at 10% tariff but no leverage to buy the oil… because we signed that away for a ‘Historic 18% tariff.’ The genius of India’s Trade Minister!”
Opposition Voices Growing Concerns
The political debate in India has intensified, with opposition leaders raising questions about the government’s strategy in international trade negotiations. Critics argue that the deal compromises India’s economic and energy interests, particularly affecting farmers, industries, and the nation’s bargaining power on critical commodities.
