Congress MP Rajeev Shukla Raises Alarm Over US Tariffs, Calls for Economic Revival

Ahmedabad : Congress MP Rajeev Shukla expressed concern over India’s economic trajectory following the imposition of reciprocal tariffs by the United States, stating that the economy appears to be veering off course. Speaking at the sidelines of the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting in Ahmedabad, Shukla emphasized the urgent need for corrective measures to stabilize and strengthen India’s economy.

“Our economy is heading in the wrong direction. We have been warning about this for some time now. If the government fails to address these issues, Indian trade will suffer serious setbacks, and employment opportunities will diminish significantly. Reviving and fortifying the economy must be a top priority,” Shukla asserted.

Shukla’s remarks come amid growing criticism from the Congress over the central government’s lack of response to the US move. Congress leader Pawan Khera also voiced his disapproval, particularly targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s silence on the matter.

“The most worrying aspect is the Prime Minister’s silence. The United States is openly challenging our trade standing, our stock market, and overall economic stability. Yet, the PM has made no statement. While countries like Canada, China, Taiwan, the UK, and the EU have all either responded or are preparing to respond, India’s strategy remains unclear—not just to the opposition, but to the citizens at large,” Khera said.

He further added, “The Prime Minister must address the nation to assure the people and restore faith in both the economy and the stock market. Transparency and collective confidence are critical in times like these.”

The developments come on the heels of heightened volatility in Asian markets, with investors reacting strongly to US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a fresh round of tariffs. The announcement triggered heavy sell-offs across Asian stock exchanges, reflecting global concerns about escalating trade tensions and their potential impact on economic growth.

Meanwhile, in Ahmedabad, the Congress leadership has convened for the CWC meeting and the 84th All India Congress Committee (AICC) convention. The meeting, attended by key leaders including Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, KC Venugopal, and Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, is expected to focus on political developments, party restructuring, and strategies for upcoming elections.

With the iconic Sabarmati Riverfront as the backdrop, the gathering holds symbolic significance—Gujarat being the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi. The party aims to rejuvenate its presence in the state while laying the groundwork for a broader national revival.

As India faces economic and political crossroads, the Congress party is using this opportunity to reinforce its stance, question the government’s policy direction, and position itself as a viable alternative in the evolving political landscape.