Opposition Leaders Launch Scathing Attack on India-US Interim Trade Framework
Opposition leaders on Saturday unleashed a fierce critique of the newly announced India-US Interim Trade Agreement framework, accusing the government of compromising national interests and raising alarm over potential damage to farmers, tariff structures, and oil imports. The political backlash centers on fears that the deal could undermine domestic agriculture and livelihoods.
Congress Warns of Agricultural Catastrophe
Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala delivered a stark warning, stating the agreement could devastate farmers and rural communities. "A severe blow has been delivered to the stomachs of India's 720 million farmers," he declared. "Deliberate efforts have been made to snatch away the livelihood of India's 720 million food providers, including farm laborers and cultivators."
Surjewala highlighted concerns over a potential influx of US agricultural products, predicting market flooding. "US corn, US soybeans, US sorghum (jowar), US walnuts, almonds, pistachios, fresh fruits like apples and oranges, processed fruits, and numerous additional agricultural items will all inundate the Indian market," he cautioned.
He pointed to existing trade patterns as a warning sign. "We are already importing $334 million worth of cotton from the US, which has crashed cotton prices for Indian farmers. Now, with corn, cotton, sorghum, fruits, processed fruits, and soybeans arriving from the US, I demand answers from PM Modi and Piyush Goyal: what future awaits India's farmers? Where will they find refuge?" Surjewala questioned.
Allegations of Diplomatic Surrender and Suppressed Debate
Congress leader Pawan Khera attacked the government's diplomatic stance, questioning a perceived shift in posture. "Where is the India that once looked Nixon, George Bush, and Obama in the eye while forging practical, balanced relations?" he asked rhetorically.
Khera alleged that ordinary Indian interests were being sacrificed, stating, "This is not a genuine agreement with the United States, but a profound compromise with our national self-respect." He accused proponents of misleading the public, saying, "Those portraying this framework as a triumph are fully aware of its detrimental implications. This is not a strategic deal, but an outright surrender."
He further claimed parliamentary scrutiny was being stifled, alleging, "The opposition is being systematically prevented from raising these critical issues in Parliament because the government fears intense examination of the agreement's terms."
RJD MP Condemns Tariff Manipulation and Predicts Public Unrest
RJD MP Manoj Kumar Jha criticized tariff adjustments under the framework, accusing the government of deception. "Historically, our tariff on most items, even in challenging times, stood at 2.9%. Through coercive tactics, it was raised to 50%, then abruptly reduced to 18%. Is this reduction truly a cause for celebration? Are you not misleading the entire nation?" he challenged.
Jha issued a dire prediction about public reaction. "When the full ramifications of this agreement materialize and become widely understood, there will be significant unrest on the streets," he warned, suggesting the deal could spark widespread anger once its impacts are felt.
Background of the Trade Announcement
The criticism follows Saturday's official announcement where India and the United States revealed a framework for an Interim Agreement focused on reciprocal and mutually beneficial trade. This framework forms part of broader, ongoing negotiations aimed at establishing a comprehensive Bilateral Trade Agreement between the two nations.
The opposition's unified stance underscores deep political divisions over economic diplomacy, with leaders demanding transparency and safeguards for vulnerable sectors, particularly agriculture, as India navigates complex international trade negotiations.
