New Delhi: Taking a swipe at the government over the interim US trade deal, the Congress on Sunday said it was reflective of “Abki baar Trump se haar”, and called for it to be put on hold in view of the confusion following US Supreme Court verdict striking down President Donald Trump’s global tariffs.
The ruling creates uncertainty around the deal, said Congress communications in-charge Jairam Ramesh. He urged renegotiation of the framework, particularly the provisions on liberalising imports of agricultural products. “India has made significant concessions without equivalent gains,” Ramesh told PTI.
He referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2019 slogan in Houston — “Abki baar Trump Sarkaar” — and questioned the timing of the February 2 announcement. Ramesh suggested it followed Rahul Gandhi’s criticism in the Parliament of the government’s handling of external security issues.
Under the framework, India agreed to reduce or eliminate tariffs on US industrial goods and various agricultural items, including soyabean, maize, fruits, nuts, and cotton.
“The direct impact of this commitment is going to be felt on soyabean farmers, maize farmers, fruits and nuts cultivators, cotton farmers. It will impact farmers in J&K, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh to begin with. Then there is mention of additional products in the joint statement. What is meant by that,” Ramesh asked
The agreement allows modifications if either side alters its commitments, Ramesh noted. With the US changing its tariff policy, India now has grounds to revise its obligations. “This should be placed in cold storage to protect farmers’ interests,” he said.
Ramesh also questioned the haste in finalising the deal despite anticipation of the court verdict. He raised concerns over conflicting statements on India’s Russian oil purchases, with US officials claiming a halt while the government emphasises strategic autonomy.
“Any trade agreement involves give and take, but this appears one-sided,” he added.
On the the Congress’ agenda, Ramesh said the first in the series of Kisan Maha Chaupals will be held in Bhopal on February 24, the second in Maharashtra on March 7, and the third in Sri Ganganagar.
“Our objective is to fully protect the interests of farmers,” he asserted.
