Tensions flared in India’s Parliament as Rahul Gandhi, Congress MP and Lok Sabha’s opposition leader, launched a blistering attack on the India-US trade deal. Labeling it ‘anti-farmer,’ Gandhi argued it endangers the vital farming community that feeds the nation. His outspoken opposition has ignited a fierce counteroffensive from BJP stalwarts defending the government’s strategy.
BJP leaders contend Gandhi is sowing confusion among farmers for political gain. In a pointed response, national spokesperson RP Singh clarified that the agreement safeguards every farmer. He highlighted PM Modi’s prudent exit from RCEP in 2019 to protect agrarian stakeholders, contrasting it with UPA’s risky push in 2012. ‘Modi ji ensures no deal compromises farmers’ welfare,’ Singh declared.
From Punjab, BJP’s Fateh Jang Singh Bajwa dismissed opposition rhetoric as baseless, citing Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal’s assurances of zero negative fallout for farmers. The government, Bajwa stressed, has erected a robust shield around agricultural interests, refusing any trade-offs.
Adding weight, Shiv Sena’s Sanjay Nirupam revealed the deal is sealed, announced by Donald Trump himself, with tariff talks at 18%. Yet, with details pending, he slammed premature fear-mongering as dangerous. Leaders should wait for official terms before judgments, Nirupam advised. This episode reveals stark partisan lines: Congress cries foul on farmer protection, while BJP touts strategic diplomacy. As details emerge, public scrutiny will test these claims, potentially reshaping trade policy debates ahead of key elections.