Rahul Gandhi Faces Privilege Notice After Fiery Budget Speech on US Deal
In a heated parliamentary session on Wednesday, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi launched a sharp critique of the government, targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the India-US trade deal. Gandhi asserted that the agreement compromises India's energy security and agricultural interests, sparking a contentious debate in the House.
Gandhi's Martial Arts Analogy and Allegations
During a discussion on the Union Budget, Gandhi employed a martial arts analogy, describing the government's stance as a "grip" and "chokehold" on national resources. He accused the administration of weaponizing energy and finance against Indian citizens, particularly farmers and youth. "You are handing over our data. How can you even make these statements? How can you even come to this House?" Gandhi questioned, though some of his remarks were not officially recorded due to procedural directions from the chair, Jagdambika Pal.
Rijiju's Response and Privilege Notice Threat
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju responded angrily, announcing plans to file a privilege notice against Gandhi for what he termed "misleading the House and making baseless statements." Rijiju cited House rules, emphasizing that serious charges require prior notice and substantiation. He also admonished Gandhi for using what he described as "abusive language" during the uproar.
Gandhi's Defense and Further Claims
Outside the House, Gandhi defended his statements, vowing to authenticate his allegations. He referenced US Department of Justice files involving Union Minister Hardeep Puri and industrialist Anil Ambani, as well as an ongoing case against the Adani Group. Gandhi claimed the Indian government has been unresponsive for 18 months, suggesting "direct pressure on the Prime Minister." He argued that no prime minister would normally concede on issues like data, farmers, defense, and energy security unless under duress.
Details of the US Deal Critique
Gandhi elaborated on his concerns about the trade deal, highlighting several key points:
- US imports are projected to surge from $46 billion to $146 billion, which he labeled "absurd."
- Indian tariffs have increased while US tariffs dropped from 16% to 0%.
- The deal allegedly includes concessions such as no data localization, free data flow to the USA, limits on digital tax, no source code disclosure, and a 20-year tax holiday.
He framed India's data as its "most valuable asset," accusing the government of relinquishing control over digital trade rules. Addressing US President Donald Trump, Gandhi insisted on equal partnership, stating, "We will go there as equals. And we will not be made equal to Pakistan."
Broader Implications and Political Fallout
The exchange underscores deepening political tensions over foreign policy and economic agreements. Gandhi's remarks reflect the opposition's strategy to challenge the government on transparency and national sovereignty, while Rijiju's move signals a robust defense of parliamentary decorum. This incident may influence upcoming debates on trade and security, with both sides preparing for further confrontations.
As the privilege notice process unfolds, it will test the boundaries of parliamentary discourse and accountability, potentially setting precedents for future political engagements in India's legislative arena.
