Congress MPs Challenge Modi Over India-US Trade Deal Clarity

Congress MPs have criticized Prime Minister Modi for lack of transparency on the India-US trade deal. They questioned India's sovereignty and raised concerns over unconfirmed claims about tariff reductions and concessions on imports. Despite these issues, a joint statement is expected soon as talks progress.

In a heated political exchange, Congress MP Kiran Kumar Chamala launched an attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, demanding transparency around the India-US trade agreement. Addressing ANI, Chamala accused Modi of acting as former US President Donald Trump's secretary, questioning India's sovereignty by suggesting that decisions were being influenced by Washington DC.

Chamala remarked, "The Prime Minister of India is scheduled to speak at 5 pm, but there's uncertainty whether he will represent India or stand as Trump's personal secretary." The Congress leader further emphasized the need for parliamentary discussion, arguing that the Indian populace deserves transparency. Modi is expected to address the Lok Sabha on the motion of gratitude for the President's address today.

Adding to the critique, Congress MP Jairam Ramesh also questioned the lack of clarity regarding the India-US trade deal, highlighting the absence of a joint statement. Ramesh criticized Modi via social media, alleging concessions on agricultural imports. Despite announced tariff reductions from 25% to 18%, the agreement has sparked political controversy, with speculative claims about India's potential tariff cuts to zero and substantial US imports going unconfirmed.

Government sources anticipate that a joint statement regarding the deal will be released this week as both nations finalize the agreement's details. Meanwhile, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent engaged in talks with India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, emphasizing the importance of secured supply chains. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal assured that Modi has safeguarded sensitive sectors, such as agriculture and dairy, in the trade discussions. (ANI)