Akhilesh Attacks Govt’s ‘Failed’ Policies Amid Export Setback

Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav launched a scathing critique of the BJP-led Union government on Thursday, attributing the severe impact of US tariffs on Indian goods to its “failed” foreign and economic policies. The 50% tariffs, imposed by US President Donald Trump as a retaliatory measure against India’s purchase of Russian crude oil, came into effect on August 27, threatening the livelihoods of exporters, workers, and artisans, particularly in Uttar Pradesh.

In a fiery post on X, the former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister demanded immediate relief for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), warning that the already dire unemployment crisis could spiral further without swift action. “Why should exporters, workers, and craftsmen bear the cost of the BJP’s policy failures? If the government can favor billionaires, why not support small and medium enterprises?” Yadav questioned, accusing the Centre of neglecting traders and manufacturers. He asserted, “If the BJP goes, trade will return,” signaling a call for political accountability.

Yadav shared a video highlighting the plight of workers affected by the tariffs, which have disrupted supply chains and stranded goods worth billions, including Banarasi sarees, leather products, and handicrafts, in shipping containers. The tariffs, doubled from an initial 25% imposed earlier this month, follow a 21-day negotiation window that expired on August 26, affecting roughly 500 industries in Uttar Pradesh alone.

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The SP leader urged the government to provide a “safety shield” for exporters, particularly those under the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme, to mitigate the crisis. With India’s exports to the US, valued at $48.2 billion annually, facing potential 70% reductions in key sectors, Yadav’s call echoes similar demands from leaders like Kamal Haasan, who proposed a two-year MSME loan moratorium and freight subsidies. As the economic fallout intensifies, the pressure is on the Centre to act decisively to protect India’s export-driven industries.

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