Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi Slams Government Over US-India Trade Deal During Budget Debate
Dated 11th February 2026
News By Dr. B R Abdul Wajid
Editor in Chief
New Delhi | Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Shri Rahul Gandhi, strongly criticised the Modi government while speaking on the Union Budget in Parliament today. He raised serious concerns about the US-India Trade Deal, India’s data security, farmers’ interests, tariff policies and other issues.
Speaking in the House, Rahul Gandhi said that if the INDIA Alliance were negotiating with US President Donald Trump, they would have made it clear that Indian data is the country’s most valuable asset. He said Indian data will shape the future of the country in the 21st century and help India become a global superpower. He stated that any trade discussion with the United States should happen between equals and not in a “master and servant” manner.
Rahul Gandhi alleged that the Modi government has compromised India’s digital interests in the trade deal. He claimed that the government has given up control over digital trade rules, removed data localisation requirements, allowed free flow of Indian data to the US, capped digital taxes, waived source code disclosure, and offered long tax holidays to big technology companies. He described these decisions as giving away India’s most powerful asset.
Video Source : SANSAD TV
The Congress leader also expressed deep concern about farmers. He said that for the first time in Indian history, farmers are facing a major crisis. He accused the government of opening doors to large, mechanised American farms, which could negatively impact India’s small and marginal farmers. Calling the move “disgraceful,” he said no Prime Minister should allow such a situation.
Rahul Gandhi further criticised the government’s approach towards energy and financial security. He pointed out that while the Prime Minister often speaks about the end of a single superpower era and rising geopolitical tensions, the government has allegedly allowed the US to gain advantage over India in finance and energy matters.
Video Source : SANSAD TV
On tariffs, Rahul Gandhi highlighted what he described as a major imbalance. He said India’s average tariff has increased from 3% to 18%, a six-fold rise. He also claimed that US imports are expected to increase from $46 billion to $146 billion. He questioned why India is committing to increasing imports by $100 billion annually, while the US has made no equal commitment to India. He further stated that India’s tariffs have gone up, while US tariffs have reduced from 16% to zero.
Addressing members across the aisle, Rahul Gandhi said he believes everyone in the House wants to protect the country and values India’s data. He added that India’s biggest strength is its people and their data, and expressed hope that national interest will always come first in such negotiations.
Video Source : SANSAD TV
News By Dr. B R Abdul Wajid | New Delhi
