On Sunday, Arvind Kejriwal, the convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to adopt a strong stance against the United States by imposing a 75% tariff on American imports. His comments were made in light of Washington’s decision to levy a 50% duty on Indian products. Kejriwal stated that if Modi acted decisively, he would have the backing of the entire nation, asserting that such a measure would compel President Donald Trump to ‘bow down.’ He criticized the Modi administration for failing to safeguard national interests and for exempting an 11% duty on US cotton imports until December 31, 2025.
Kejriwal claimed this exemption benefits American farmers while putting Indian cotton producers, especially those in Gujarat, at a significant disadvantage. He highlighted the struggles faced by Indian farmers, warning that the influx of inexpensive US cotton could result in local growers earning less than ₹900, making it difficult for them to repay loans for seeds, fertilizers, and labor. He cautioned that financial hardship could lead many to contemplate suicide. Furthermore, he accused the Modi government of capitulating to Trump’s demands, labeling the US president as a ‘coward’ and ‘timid.’ Kejriwal argued that instead of lowering duties, India should have imposed even higher tariffs on cotton and other American products.
He demanded not only the reinstatement of the 11% duty on US cotton but also the establishment of a fair Minimum Support Price (MSP) and financial aid for farmers. He noted that the US tariffs were adversely affecting not only the agriculture sector but also India’s diamond workers. In response, the Centre defended its decision, stating that the relaxation of cotton import duties would benefit India’s export-driven sectors, particularly small and medium enterprises.