SJM Condemns US Tariff Threat, Urges India to Strengthen Global Ties

The Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM) reacted sharply to US President Trump's threats of penalties over India's trade with Russia. SJM called for resistance against coercive tactics and urged strengthening ties with new partners. The emphasis was on strategic autonomy, reducing dependence, and supporting Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

The Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM) has issued a stern response to comments made by US President Donald Trump, who threatened penalties against India over its trade and defense ties with Russia. The Manch described these threats—which include a possible 25% tariff increase—as coercive measures that India should firmly oppose.

Emphasizing India's right to independently procure defense equipment and secure affordable crude oil, SJM maintained that such actions are crucial for national security and inflation control. According to the organization, India's strategic decisions should not be swayed by foreign influence. They argued that India has proven itself as a global power, highlighting its successes in Operation Sindoor. The SJM criticized the US's 'unipolar worldview' and called for a shift toward a cooperative, multipolar global trade system.

SJM commended the Indian government for its resilient stand during ongoing Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations with the US. Despite pressures regarding genetically modified crops, dairy imports, medical device deregulation, and data flow issues, India has held its ground on priorities such as food security and data localization. The Manch accused the US of attempting to sidestep WTO regulations with its "reciprocity" strategy in non-trade contexts, thereby undermining fair negotiations.

SJM stressed that India's trade policies should protect farmers, small industries, and sustainable economic growth. The Manch encouraged expanding partnerships with Latin America, Africa, BRICS, and the Global South, reducing reliance on traditional trade alliances. While acknowledging the important economic relationship with the US, the organization expressed concerns about using trade as an instrument of pressure.

National Co-Convener Ashwani Mahajan concluded by calling on the Indian government to defend national interests, uphold strategic autonomy, and push forward with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. He emphasized that any temporary trade setbacks could ultimately bolster India's goal of self-reliance in critical sectors.

(With inputs from agencies.)