US Tariff Shock: Donald Trump's 25% Tax Provokes Indian Political Storm

In a dramatic turn of events, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh blasted US President Donald Trump's decision to impose a 25 percent tariff on India, labeling it a 'huge setback' for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the nation's economy. Speaking to ANI, Ramesh described the move as 'blackmail by the US', accusing Trump of overreach in dictating from where New Delhi should procure its energy supplies.

Ramesh highlighted the lack of gains from recent high-profile engagements like 'Howdy Modi' and 'Namaste Trump', pointing out that the US has now surfaced as a third major challenge for India alongside China and Pakistan. He stressed the detrimental impact of these tariffs on sectors including engineering, pharmaceuticals, and business industries.

Trump announced the tariffs in a social media post, criticizing India's trade barriers and its purchases of Russian military equipment and energy. This decision comes ahead of an August 1 deadline, amid ongoing efforts to finalize a trade deal between the two nations. Meanwhile, India's Commerce and Industry Ministry stated its commitment to a balanced trade agreement that protects the interests of Indian farmers, entrepreneurs, and MSMEs.

(With inputs from agencies.)