New Delhi [India]: Congress leaders Manish Tewari and Randeep Surjewala have strongly criticized the BJP-led central government over the 26% reciprocal tariffs imposed on India by the United States, calling it a failure of economic diplomacy.
“Government Needs to Develop a Spine” – Manish Tewari
Tewari lambasted the government for its inaction, stating:
“The US has imposed tariffs, expelled our students, and canceled visas without any provocation, and the government is absolutely silent. This is an abject failure of negotiations between India and the US. The government needs to develop a spine and stand up to the US.”
Congress Questions Modi Govt’s “Silence” on Tariffs
Congress MP Randeep Surjewala also attacked the government on X:
“The +27% Tariffs by U.S on India are effective Wednesday, April 3rd, 2025! Electronics, Pharmaceuticals, Machinery, Chemicals, Apparel, Carpets, Seafood, Gold & Jewellery – all impacted. Where is Modi Govt? Where are Finance & Commerce Ministers? Why is the PM silent? Why are they ‘missing in action’ again?”
Trump’s Justification: “India Charges Us 52%, We Charge Almost Nothing”
At the Make America Wealthy Again event, US President Donald Trump defended the new tariffs, claiming:
“India is very, very tough. Prime Minister Modi is a great friend of mine, but they are not treating us right. They charge us 52%, and we charge them almost nothing…”
Impact on India & Global Markets
- Key sectors affected: Electronics, pharma, machinery, chemicals, apparel, seafood, gold & jewellery
- Markets react: Sensex and Nifty dropped sharply amid global uncertainty
- Opposition demands action: Congress urges Modi govt to take a firm stance against US trade policies
Will India Retaliate?
With increasing domestic and political pressure, will the Modi government respond with counter-tariffs or opt for negotiations?