Aditya Thackeray Critiques Government Over India-US Trade Agreement

Thackeray's Concerns on Trade Deal

On Tuesday, Aditya Thackeray, a leader from the Shiv Sena (UBT), expressed his discontent with the central government regarding the India-US trade agreement. He pointed out that while the government claims to be strong in matters of democracy, it appears weak in safeguarding India's sovereignty and national interests. Thackeray urged the government to provide a clear explanation of the trade agreement and to hold an open press conference to address media inquiries.

Under the terms of the India-US trade agreement, tariffs on Indian goods exported to the US have been reduced to 18%. The US asserts that this deal will facilitate increased agricultural exports to India.

Critique of Government's Stance

In a social media post, Thackeray criticized the BJP-led government, stating that while it claims to support democracy, freedom of expression, press freedom, environmental activism, and general knowledge, it falters in protecting India's sovereignty, negotiating trade agreements, and managing geopolitical and national interests diplomatically.

Parliamentary Discussion on Trade Agreement

Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal is set to address Parliament regarding the India-US trade agreement, which has seen tariffs on exported goods from India reduced to 18%. This discussion comes after opposition MPs raised concerns about the agricultural sector and the purchase of oil from Russia, demanding details of the agreement. Previously, amid protests from the opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister JP Nadda assured that the government would issue a statement regarding the agreement and is prepared for a discussion in the house. Nadda mentioned that late last night, the US President tweeted about the tariffs, referring to Prime Minister Modi as a true friend, to which Modi responded with gratitude and a tweet about trade. The government plans to issue a statement on this trade agreement and engage in discussions.