‎New Delhi, Feb 21 (INI) ‎Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Saturday launched a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, questioning the circumstances surrounding the recent announcement of the India–US trade agreement and accusing the government of compromising national interests.

‎In a detailed post on X, Ramesh referred to remarks by US President Donald Trump following a reported US Supreme Court decision striking down his tariff policy. According to Ramesh, Trump declared that Prime Minister Modi was his “great friend,” that the India–US trade deal would continue as announced, and that he had personally intervened to halt “Operation Sindoor” on May 10, 2025, by threatening increased tariffs on Indian exports.

‎Ramesh further cited Trump’s February 2, 2026, statement announcing the finalisation of the India–US trade deal. He quoted Trump as saying: “Out of friendship and respect for Prime Minister Modi and, as per his request, effective immediately, we agreed to a trade deal between the United States and India…”

‎The Congress leader raised pointed questions about the timing of the announcement.

‎“What forced Prime Minister Modi to ensure President Trump announced the India–US trade deal on the night of February 2, 2026, Indian time?” Ramesh asked. “What had happened in the Lok Sabha that afternoon that had compelled Modi to get so desperate and reach out to his good friend in the White House to create a diversion?”

‎Ramesh alleged that the Prime Minister acted out of political compulsion, claiming that had the government “waited just 18 days more, Indian farmers would have been saved their agony and distress and Indian sovereignty would have been protected.”

‎Describing the agreement as detrimental, Ramesh said, “The India–US trade deal is really an ordeal that India is being subjected to by the Prime Minister’s desperation and surrender.”

‎The Congress has been critical of the trade pact, expressing concerns over its potential impact on agriculture, small industries, and domestic manufacturing. Party leaders have argued that trade negotiations must prioritise farmer welfare and safeguard India’s economic sovereignty.

‎The government has previously maintained that the India–US trade deal is designed to enhance bilateral trade, boost exports, and deepen strategic ties between the two countries.

‎The trade agreement, announced earlier this month, is seen as a significant step in strengthening economic cooperation between New Delhi and Washington. However, the political debate surrounding its negotiation and timing appears set to intensify in the coming days.

. SKA SQ .