‘Modi will meekly bow’: Rahul Gandhi slams Piyush Goyal over Trump tariff deadline

New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday launched a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi over India's ongoing trade negotiations with the United States, claiming that the Prime Minister would "meekly bow" to pressure from US President Donald Trump as the July 9 deadline for a deal approaches.

Gandhi’s comments came in response to Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal’s statement that India is not working towards any “specific deadlines” in its trade talks with Washington, but rather prioritising the country’s national interests.

"Piyush Goyal can beat his chest all he wants, mark my words, Modi will meekly bow to the Trump tariff deadline," Gandhi posted on X (formerly Twitter).

The US had earlier imposed reciprocal tariffs on nearly 100 countries, including India, which was hit with duties of up to 26 per cent. Although Trump had agreed to a 90-day pause on the tariffs--ending on Tuesday--there remains uncertainty over whether a limited trade package or "mini deal" can be finalised before then, ahead of a broader agreement expected by September or October following a bilateral meeting between the two leaders.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Goyal emphasised that India would only enter into an agreement if its core interests are safeguarded and it can maintain a tariff edge over competitors. He also underlined that protecting the interests of farmers and domestic industries remains a top priority.

"India will enter into a trade agreement with the US only if its interests are protected and it is able to sustain a tariff advantage over its competitors, while prioritising the interests of farmers," Goyal said.

He further added: "Farmers' interest is always paramount for Modi government. In any negotiation we have done--you have seen UK, Australia, Mauritius, EFTA and UAE agreements--India's farmers have been protected."

For India, agricultural products such as maize, soybean, and dairy are particularly sensitive areas. New Delhi has consistently resisted offering concessions in these sectors, even as Washington pushes for greater access. In contrast, India is seeking duty concessions from the US in labour-intensive sectors such as leather, footwear, textiles, and selected auto parts. In exchange, India may consider reducing levies on automobiles and American whiskey.

While Goyal did not elaborate on the specifics of the ongoing talks, he reiterated the government's stand that national interest would not be compromised. Some Indian officials have also suggested that the US's demands remain unclear, making it difficult to finalise a comprehensive agreement.