Tue Feb 03 09:02:25 UTC 2026: Headline: Congress Demands Transparency on India-U.S. Trade Deal, Citing Modi’s “Surrender” to Trump
The Story:
The Indian National Congress party is fiercely criticizing the Modi government’s handling of trade negotiations with both the U.S. and the EU. The party is demanding that the full text of the agreements be presented and debated in Parliament, alleging a lack of transparency and expressing concerns that Prime Minister Modi has conceded too much to U.S. President Donald Trump. The Congress claims the deal will negatively impact Indian industry, traders, and farmers, especially given statements from the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture indicating liberalization of agricultural imports.
Key Points:
* The Congress is demanding that the Modi government present the full text of the U.S. and EU trade deals in Parliament for debate.
* Jairam Ramesh, Congress General Secretary, accused PM Modi of “completely surrendering” to President Trump, similar to an event on May 10, 2025.
* The Congress criticized Trump’s announcement of the trade deal being made “on Modi’s request.”
* Concerns were raised about potential tariff reductions to “zero,” impacting Indian industry and agriculture.
* The Congress questioned whether India agreed to buy oil from the U.S. and Venezuela instead of Russia, and what the implications are for the “Make in India” initiative.
* President Trump stated that the U.S. would reduce tariffs on Indian goods from 25% to 18% under the new deal.
* India and the EU sealed a trade deal on January 27, 2026.
* The Government is expected to provide details of the India-U.S. trade deal today, as per Nadda.
Critical Analysis:
The Congress’s aggressive stance suggests they perceive vulnerabilities in the Modi government’s handling of international trade, possibly fueled by perceived concessions to the U.S. and a lack of transparency in negotiations. Their reference to “Operation Sindoor” and Modi’s prior interactions with President Trump highlights a narrative of failed diplomacy and appeasement. The timing of the announcement, just before the Parliament Budget Session, gives the opposition leverage to pressure the government.
Key Takeaways:
* The India-U.S. trade deal is facing significant political opposition within India.
* Transparency and perceived fairness are central to the controversy surrounding the trade deal.
* The Congress is leveraging the trade deal to attack the Modi government’s economic and diplomatic policies.
* Agricultural liberalization is a major point of contention.
* The government is facing pressure to share further details of the trade deal during Parliament Budget Session Day 5.
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