Controversy Erupts Over India-US Trade Deal as Tariff Cuts Push Political Buttons

Congress MP Jairam Ramesh demands parliamentary scrutiny of India-US and EU trade deals, criticizing PM Modi's 'huglomacy'. Concerns over US influence arise as Trump announces the deal before Indian representatives, claiming it benefits US agriculture. Opposition questions the autonomy of India's trade and foreign policies.

Congress Rajya Sabha MP Jairam Ramesh on Tuesday called for a parliamentary debate on the recent trade agreements with the European Union and the United States. He criticized the government, particularly in response to US claims that the agreement would boost American agricultural exports to India.

Ramesh questioned India's diplomatic stance under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, coining the term 'huglomacy' to describe Modi's approach. The MP alleged Modi's complete concession in negotiations with the US, especially in light of previous instances where President Trump claimed to have defused an India-Pakistan conflict. Ramesh insisted that both the India-US trade agreement and the Free Trade Agreement with the EU be presented to Parliament for discussion.

The controversy stems from comments made by US Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, who confirmed that the accord will increase US agricultural exports to India. Congress members like Sukhdeo Bhagat and Udit Raj have also voiced concerns over the announcement being made by Trump rather than an Indian official, questioning India's policy independence.

(With inputs from agencies.)