Rahul Gandhi Sounds Alarm on 'Dead Economy', Blames US Tariffs for Textile Crisis
Rahul Gandhi criticizes PM Modi for inaction on textile crisis amid 50% US tariffs, urges worker-first trade deal.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday raised alarm over the mounting crisis in India’s textile sector, citing US tariffs of up to 50% and growing global competition as major threats to jobs and businesses. Speaking from a garment factory in Haryana, Gandhi criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for failing to provide relief or address the sector’s mounting challenges.
Gandhi shared a video on X and YouTube highlighting the impact of tariffs on exporters, stating that India’s textile industry—the second largest employer in the country—is facing “deep uncertainty and fear.” He warned that factory shutdowns, falling orders, and reduced procurement are putting over 4.5 crore jobs and lakhs of businesses at risk.
In his post, the Congress leader emphasized the global demand and craftsmanship of Indian textiles, calling the industry “world-class,” but stressed that current US tariffs and price pressures in Europe, combined with competition from Bangladesh and China, are threatening its survival. Gandhi also highlighted the resilience of workers he met during his factory visit, noting their skills and dedication.
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Gandhi criticized the government for inaction, stating, “Mr Modi has offered no relief or even spoken about tariffs, even though more than 4.5 crore jobs and lakhs of businesses are at stake.” He urged the Prime Minister to secure a trade deal with the United States that prioritizes Indian businesses and workers, warning that continued neglect could further weaken the economy.
During the factory visit, Gandhi engaged with workers and executives, observing production processes and even trying his hand at cutting cloth, reinforcing his message of solidarity with the sector. He stressed that timely government support is crucial to protect jobs and sustain India’s position as a global textile hub.
The Congress leader concluded by urging immediate action from the Centre, asserting that protecting the textile sector is vital for employment, exports, and economic stability, and criticized the government for allowing policy gaps to imperil a cornerstone of India’s economy.
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