Trade Deal Under Fire
Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, the chief spokesperson for Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab and a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), has voiced strong opposition
to the India-US trade agreement. Dhaliwal specifically criticized Punjab BJP President Sunil Jakhar for endorsing the deal, labeling it the most significant "betrayal" to the country's farming community. He issued a direct challenge to Jakhar, urging him to publicly release the full text of the agreement rather than making public statements in its favor. Dhaliwal pointed out a stark imbalance, citing that the previous Trump administration had increased tariffs on Indian goods to 18%. In contrast, he alleged that the current Modi government has completely conceded, reducing taxes on American products to zero. This disparity, he argued, makes the deal fundamentally unfair, allowing American farmers to export their produce to India tax-free, while Indian farmers face an 18% tariff on their goods when exporting to the US. He questioned the rationale behind such terms, asking how this arrangement could possibly serve the nation's best interests.
Economic Repercussions Feared
Dhaliwal further elaborated on the potential economic damage this trade pact could inflict. He issued a stern warning that the influx of American "red sorghum" into the Indian market, facilitated by the zero-tariff policy, could devastate local farmers. This, he explained, would particularly harm those cultivating maize, millets, and sorghum in key agricultural regions like Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra. The absence of tariffs on American agricultural imports is also projected to negatively impact producers of apples, almonds, and walnuts in Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. Dhaliwal warned that these domestic producers might be forced out of business, facing severe financial hardship and uncertainty about their future. This aspect of the deal, he stressed, demonstrates a clear disregard for the viability and success of India's own agricultural and horticultural industries, jeopardizing the livelihoods of thousands.
Political Accusations Rise
The AAP leader drew a parallel between Sunil Jakhar's current stance and the past advocacy for the contentious farm laws by the Badal family, suggesting a pattern of supporting policies detrimental to farmers. He remarked on the current political standing of the Akali Dal, implying that their alignment with previous controversial agricultural policies has led to their diminished influence. Dhaliwal cautioned Jakhar against a similar fate, advising him to be mindful of the consequences of aligning too closely with Prime Minister Modi. He also alluded to Jakhar's political history, noting his previous association with the Gandhi family while in the Congress party, and now his perceived efforts to undermine national interests by praising Modi. This comparison highlights Dhaliwal's view that Jakhar is prioritizing political expediency over the welfare of the country and its farmers.
Transparency and Accountability
A significant point of contention for Dhaliwal is the lack of transparency surrounding the trade deal. He stated that the only information available to the public has emanated from former President Trump's social media posts. Dhaliwal expressed dismay that the Prime Minister has not addressed the matter in Parliament, nor has he officially briefed the nation on the specifics of the agreement. This perceived lack of communication and consultation, Dhaliwal argued, amounts to the Prime Minister "mortgaging" the country's interests to the United States. He asserted that this issue transcends a mere dispute between political parties; it is a matter that affects the entire nation. Dhaliwal pledged to consistently counter what he termed Jakhar's misleading statements and to continuously expose the BJP's perceived anti-farmer agenda.
