The Congress party on Tuesday stepped up its criticism of the central government’s ongoing trade negotiations with the United States, urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to avoid signing any agreement that it claims could be “one-sided” in favour of Washington. The opposition party also cautioned against what it described as an overly soft diplomatic approach towards US President Donald Trump, arguing that India should safeguard its economic interests rather than make concessions under external pressure.

According to statements from the Indian National Congress, the proposed trade framework under discussion between India and the United States requires greater scrutiny. Party leaders alleged that certain aspects of the deal could negatively impact domestic industries, particularly agriculture and small and medium enterprises. Congress leaders said India must negotiate from a position of strength and ensure that any agreement is balanced, mutually beneficial, and transparent. They added that strategic ties with the US should not translate into economic compromises that could hurt local producers.

The remarks come amid ongoing efforts by New Delhi and Washington to expand trade cooperation, including discussions on tariffs, market access, and supply chain integration. However, differences reportedly remain over sensitive sectors such as agriculture, digital trade rules, and industrial tariffs. Government officials have maintained that the talks are aimed at strengthening bilateral economic relations and attracting investment while protecting domestic priorities.

The issue has now become politically sensitive, with the opposition accusing the government of prioritising diplomatic optics over economic safeguards. Meanwhile, experts say India continues to balance a complex equation between deepening global partnerships and protecting internal market stability. As negotiations continue, the debate highlights growing political divisions over the direction of India’s trade policy and its long-term economic strategy.

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