Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Feb 22: The Indian National Congress on Sunday criticised the Central Government of India over the reported India–US trade understanding, calling the proposed arrangement “one-sided” and potentially harmful to farmers. Senior leaders warned that the deal reflects concession under pressure rather than a balanced negotiation.

Speaking to reporters, Congress general secretary and Rajya Sabha member Jairam Ramesh expressed concern that the agreement would liberalise imports immediately while promising uncertain export gains far in the future. “Imports will happen now, exports after 20 years — what is the point?” he said, stressing that a genuine trade deal requires equitable give-and-take.

Ramesh also criticised the perceived uneven tariff structure, noting that the United States frequently adjusts duties while India appears to be offering substantial concessions. He highlighted anxiety among farmers in states including Jammu and Kashmir, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra, who fear adverse impacts on agriculture and rural livelihoods.

Echoing similar concerns, Congress MP and former Union Minister Manish Tewari questioned reports that the US may levy 10–15 percent tariffs on Indian goods, even as India has eliminated duties on around 70 items. He urged the government to clarify the nature of the deal and ensure transparency in negotiations.

Ramesh added that opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, were raising legitimate concerns based on facts rather than political rhetoric. “When you give more and receive very little, that cannot be called an agreement,” he said.

He also criticised the government over parliamentary functioning, alleging that disruptions were being allowed and that “baseless and offensive” remarks against opposition leaders and former Prime Ministers went unchecked, placing responsibility on the government to ensure smooth proceedings.