New Delhi, Feb 12 : All India Majlis‑e‑Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) president and MP Asaduddin Owaisi sharply criticised the United States’ recent trade action in Parliament, calling it an affront to India’s sovereign decision‑making. The remarks came amid tensions over a US executive order threatening a 25% tariff on Indian imports if New Delhi continues purchasing Russian oil.
Addressing the Lok Sabha, Owaisi said the tariff threat was disrespectful to India’s independence and questioned the government’s lack of response. “Who is this ‘gori chamdi wala’ to dictate to us whom we should buy oil from? Did we attain freedom for such diktats?” he asked, asserting that India should buy crude from any source it chooses.
Owaisi also warned that the interim India‑US trade agreement, which includes tariff reductions and expanded US market access, could weaken domestic industries. He highlighted concerns over tariff cuts on industrial and medical equipment and cautioned about the possible impact on sectors like powerlooms and textiles.
The opposition leader criticised the government for acquiescing without publicly defending India’s strategic autonomy, saying silence on the matter reflected poorly on national self‑respect. His comments echo a broader backlash among several opposition figures who argue that the trade framework may disproportionately favour US interests.