Hyderabad: Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee president and MLC Mahesh Kumar Goud on Thursday warned against any India-US trade deal that could jeopardise domestic industries, farmers, workers and small businesses.
Addressing a rally and dharna organised by labour and farmer unions at Indira Park, Goud said trade decisions must prioritise national interests. He cautioned that agreements favouring foreign companies could harm India’s economic stability in the long term.
He stated that any India-US trade deal lacking clarity on labour rights, wage security and job protection would be unacceptable. According to him, small traders would suffer if the agreement allowed imports without promoting domestic products. He added that the Congress party would not support unilateral decisions taken without consulting farmers and workers.
Union leaders who joined the protest also voiced concerns about the proposed pact. They argued that an India-US trade deal could expose farmers to global competition and affect minimum support prices and subsidies. Moreover, they warned of possible dilution of labour laws and increased privatisation.
Protesters seek safeguards in India-US trade deal negotiations
The protesters demanded transparent negotiations before finalising any India-US trade deal. They insisted that the government must safeguard domestic sectors and protect employment.
Goud reiterated that strengthening India’s economy requires support for agriculture, industry and labour. Therefore, he urged policymakers to ensure that trade agreements do not undermine the interests of local producers and workers.
The rally concluded with a call for wider consultations and continued mobilisation on issues affecting domestic sectors.