Gandhi to Trump: Treat India as Equal in Trade Talks

After weeks of uproar in Parliament over his earlier speech and references to former Army Chief General (Retd.) MM Naravane’s unpublished memoir, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi addressed the Lok Sabha again on Wednesday. During the ongoing Budget session, he raised the Opposition’s concerns over the proposed India–US trade deal and urged US President Donald Trump to “talk to us as equals.” He also asserted that Indian data plays a crucial role in safeguarding the strength of the US dollar.

Gandhi Says Indian Data Key in US–China Power Rivalry

Rahul Gandhi asserted that in the strategic rivalry between the United States and China, Indian data holds the greatest significance. He argued that if the US wants to retain its superpower status and protect the dominance of the dollar, it must recognise the importance of India’s data resources. The Congress leader added that if the Opposition’s INDIA bloc negotiated with President Donald Trump, it would make clear that Indian data is the most critical factor in the equation.

Addressing the Lok Sabha, Gandhi delivered a direct message to Trump, saying India considers the US a friend and is willing to help safeguard the dollar. However, he stressed that the most valuable asset in that effort lies with the Indian people — their data. He added that if Washington seeks access to Indian data, it must talk to India as an equal and not treat the country as subordinate in negotiations.

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Gandhi Demands Equal Terms in US Deal

Rahul Gandhi said the Opposition would tell the US that while it understands Washington’s need to protect its farmers, India will firmly safeguard its own agricultural interests. Speaking in the Lok Sabha, the Leader of Opposition stated that an INDIA bloc government would highlight data as India’s greatest strength and negotiate with the US on equal terms. He also asserted that India cannot be equated with Pakistan and said New Delhi would respond if President Trump accorded special engagement to Pakistan’s army leadership.

Gandhi also sharply criticised the Centre, accusing it of “selling out” the country. He questioned the government’s actions, alleged that it had compromised India’s interests, and claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would not take such decisions under normal circumstances, suggesting he was acting under pressure. His remarks sparked strong protests from the treasury benches. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju rejected the allegations, said no one can “sell” India, and asserted that the country has never had a Prime Minister better than Narendra Modi.

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