New Delhi, August 8, 2025 — US President Donald Trump’s sudden hike of tariffs on Indian goods to 50%—blaming India’s continued import of Russian oil—has triggered a storm in Parliament and political circles, with the Congress party calling it “economic blackmail” and moving an adjournment motion for immediate discussion in the Lok Sabha.
The additional 25% duty, on top of the previous 25%, comes as a retaliatory measure, with Trump accusing India of undermining Western sanctions by purchasing and reselling Russian crude oil.
India strongly condemned the move as “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable“, citing the need to ensure energy security for its 1.4 billion citizens.
Rahul Gandhi Slams PM Modi: “Don’t Let Weakness Override National Interest”
Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi directly challenged Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to resist US pressure and protect Indian interests.
“Trump’s 50% tariff is economic blackmail—an attempt to bully India into an unfair trade deal. PM Modi better not let his weakness override the interests of the Indian people,” Rahul Gandhi posted on X.
Congress Moves Adjournment Motion in Lok Sabha
The Congress party has submitted an adjournment motion notice to the Lok Sabha Secretary General, seeking an urgent debate on the fallout of Trump’s tariff hike.
Congress MP Hibi Eden, in his notice, criticized Trump’s move as politically motivated, saying:
“This action, citing India’s continued purchase and resale of Russian oil, has been rightly termed unfair and politically motivated.”
Shrimp Industry, Marine Exports in Danger
Hibi Eden also raised alarm over the impact on India’s marine exports, especially the shrimp sector, which earned $4.88 billion in 2024–25, constituting 66% of total seafood exports.
“This ‘Trump tax’ threatens to break the spine of India’s marine exports,” he warned.
He noted that lower tariffs and proximity to the US for countries like Ecuador and Guatemala have already started affecting India’s global competitiveness.
Congress Demands Immediate Government Action
The Congress has urged the government to:
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Launch a Marine Export Promotion Mission
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Provide special financial packages to affected exporters
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Ensure supportive bank credit for marine sector firms
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Address shipment disruptions caused by mid-transit tariff shocks
The party is also calling for a comprehensive reset of India’s foreign policy and trade strategy.
Ongoing Protests in Parliament
The Lok Sabha was adjourned on Wednesday amid uproar from the Opposition, demanding discussion not only on Trump’s tariff hike but also on the controversial Bihar electoral revision.
