The Congress has strongly criticized the steep 27% tariffs imposed by the US on Indian imports, calling it an "abject failure" of trade negotiations under the Modi government. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge mocked the Prime Minister’s camaraderie with Donald Trump, saying that despite their public bonhomie, India has been "trapped" by the businessman-turned-politician. Kharge highlighted how Trump's reciprocal tariffs expose his real approach to trade, despite repeatedly calling Modi a "great friend."
The tariffs, which notably exempt pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, copper, and energy products, have sparked sharp reactions from the opposition. Congress MP Manish Tewari accused the government of lacking the courage to stand up to the US, pointing out that India has faced visa cancellations and student expulsions alongside the tariffs, yet the government remains silent. Congress Rajya Sabha MP Imran Pratapgarhi alleged that the late-night Waqf Bill debate was deliberately prolonged to divert public attention from the tariff announcement.
In Parliament, Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi moved an adjournment motion demanding immediate discussion on the economic impact of the tariffs, warning that key industries such as textiles, jewelry, and chemicals would be hit hard. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray stressed that these tariffs would have a significant effect on India’s economy, jobs, and businesses, urging Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to address the issue in Parliament. Uddhav Thackeray echoed this sentiment, calling it the "biggest economic challenge" currently facing the country and linking it to the stock market downturn.
The Centre has responded cautiously, with the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) convening a high-level meeting with Commerce Ministry and Niti Aayog officials to assess the situation. Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary assured that the government is reviewing the US order, emphasizing that while "America First" is Trump's priority, for Modi, it remains "India First." The government is expected to formulate a response after evaluating the potential impact of the tariffs on trade and industry.
