Arvind Kejriwal Calls Removal of Duty on American Cotton a Betrayal of Farmers. Stated that the Modi government should not have bowed to American pressure and should have protected farmers' interests by increasing tariffs.
New Delhi: Former Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convener Arvind Kejriwal has launched a direct attack on the central government regarding the import duty on American cotton. He accused the Modi government of ignoring the interests of Indian farmers under American pressure. Kejriwal states that earlier, a 11 percent import duty was levied on cotton coming from America to India, but the Modi government has removed this duty.
He said that this decision is against the farmers, because when farmers from various states of the country—Gujarat, Punjab, Vidarbha, and Telangana—bring their cotton crop to the markets in October, they will be forced to sell it at cheaper prices. His concern is that the arrival of cheap American cotton will depress the prices of Indian farmers' crops and directly impact their economic condition.
Questioning the Lack of a Firm Stance Against America
Kejriwal also said that when America imposed tariffs on India, India should have responded by imposing at least a 50 percent tariff on American cotton. However, the central government took the opposite step and abolished the duty. He called this a direct betrayal of farmers and said that the Modi government bowed to American pressure. He believes that it is necessary to adopt a firm stance in international trade, especially when other countries are increasing tariffs to protect their industries and farmers. He gave the example of China, stating that when America imposed a 145 percent tariff on China, China retaliated with a 125 percent tariff, forcing Trump to back down. Similarly, Mexico, Canada, and the European Union also gave a b response to America, but India remained silent.
Direct Attack on Trump and Questions for Modi
Kejriwal not only targeted the central government but also former US President Donald Trump. He said that Trump is a cowardly person who had to back down when a country stood firm against him. China, Mexico, and European countries proved this, but India's Prime Minister Modi did not take any b action against American pressure. He accused the Modi government of shying away from utilizing India's strength, whereas India has such a large population that no country can ignore India's anger.
A Big Threat to Farmers
India is one of the leading cotton-producing countries in the world, and millions of farmers depend on this crop. In such a situation, the removal of duty on American cotton will directly impact the income of Indian farmers. With cheaper cotton arriving from the international market, a fall in the price of domestic crops is certain. Kejriwal states that the Modi government should immediately adopt a strict policy in the interest of farmers. Increasing import duties will not only provide protection to farmers but also strengthen India's position in international trade.
High Hopes from the Central Government Now
Politics has now heated up over the removal of import duty on cotton. The opposition is continuously questioning the central government about why it was necessary to bow to American pressure. Kejriwal states that if Trump imposes a 50 percent tariff, India should impose a 100 percent tariff. This is not just a matter of trade, but a matter of India's dignity and the livelihood of farmers. It remains to be seen what stance the Modi government takes on this controversy, as farmer organizations have already demanded the re-imposition of import duty.
