A coalition of major Indian trade unions and farmers’ groups launched a nationwide strike on Thursday to protest an interim trade deal with the United States, claiming the agreement threatens farmers, small businesses, and workers’ livelihoods.
Opposition lawmakers in Parliament demanded that the government scrap the trade deal, criticizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the slogan “Narendra Modi, surrender Modi.”
The one-day strike disrupted public services, transport, and manufacturing activities in many states, highlighting political resistance to Modi’s reform agenda ahead of upcoming state elections.
Union leaders warned that the trade deal would flood India with subsidized American agricultural products, making it difficult for small farmers and businesses to compete. Amarjeet Kaur, general secretary of the All India Trade Union Congress, said, “Cheap American farm produce will be dumped in India, making it difficult for our farmers and small businesses to compete.”
The Indian government defended the interim framework, stating it aims to expand exports, attract investments, and strengthen strategic ties with the US. Indian Trade Minister Piyush Goyal assured that farmers’ interests in agriculture and dairy sectors would be protected.
Under the deal, tariffs on Indian goods will decrease from 25% to 18%, while a 25% penalty tariff on India’s purchase of Russian oil will be dropped. In return, India will reduce Russian oil imports and purchase $500 billion worth of US goods, including energy.
Protesters also opposed privatization of state-run companies and labor code reforms, labeling the changes as a “deceptive fraud” against workers. Indian officials argue that labor reforms are essential to boost efficiency and create jobs in the long run.
