Kejriwal Challenges PM Modi to Counter US Tariffs With 75% Duty
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday challenged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to show “courage” and retaliate against the U.S. by imposing a 75% tariff on all American imports. This was in response to recent U.S. tariffs—up to 50%—on Indian exports.
Farmers Under Threat from Cotton Policy Shift
Kejriwal criticized the government’s decision to exempt the 11% import duty on U.S. cotton until December 31, noting that it would make foreign cotton cheaper and undercut Indian cotton prices. He warned that farmers could receive less than ₹900 per 20 kg during the October–November harvest, potentially leading to financial distress and even suicides among indebted growers.
Support Measures for Farmers and Workers
In addition to the retaliatory tariff, Kejriwal called for reinstating the 11% duty on U.S. cotton, setting a Minimum Support Price (MSP) of ₹2,100 per 20 kg, guaranteed procurement at MSP, and subsidies for fertilizers and seeds. He also expressed concern over the plight of diamond workers affected by the U.S. tariffs, suggesting broader industrial impacts.
