The Indian parliament on Tuesday went through a heavy disruption including an unusual refusal to allow the opposition leader to speak during the debate —— the issue centered on the India-US trade deal!
President Donald Trump announced a trade agreement with India on February 2, 2026, following a discussion with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The deal involves adjustments to tariffs and commitments on energy purchases. Trump stated that the U.S. would lower its reciprocal tariff on Indian imports from 25% to 18% and eliminate a 25% punitive tariff related to India’s Russian oil imports, resulting in an effective rate of 18% from a previous 50%.
In exchange, India agreed to reduce tariffs on various U.S. products to 0%, excluding certain sensitive agricultural sectors such as dairy. India also committed to halting purchases of Russian oil, shifting toward U.S. or Venezuelan sources, and increasing imports of American goods in areas like energy, technology, agriculture, and coal, with estimates reaching over $500 billion.
Modi responded positively, highlighting the reduced tariffs on Indian products and thanking Trump.
Opposition Alleged Pressure on Modi
The agreement drew criticism from opposition figures, including Rahul Gandhi, who suggested it resulted from external pressures tied to two specific issues. Gandhi, speaking to reporters after being restricted from addressing Parliament, described the deal as a sign of Modi’s vulnerability and called for public awareness. The ruling NDA organized events to celebrate the deal, while opposition voices questioned the timing and motivations.
Allegations Related to the Epstein Files
Recently released documents from the Jeffrey Epstein case have drawn attention to indirect references involving Indian figures. The files include communications from 2017 between Epstein and businessman Anil Ambani, who has ties to Modi’s administration. In these exchanges, Ambani reportedly sought Epstein’s assistance in connecting with U.S. officials, including Jared Kushner and Steve Bannon, ahead of Modi’s planned visit to meet Trump. One message from Epstein mentioned discussions on Israel’s strategy in relation to Modi’s schedule, and another noted a meeting with “Modi’s guy.”
The Indian government rejected these references as unreliable and unrelated to Modi directly, labeling them “trashy ruminations.”
The opposition Congress party is demanding Modi’s clarification on another matter —– citing an email where Jeffrey Epstein claimed Modi took his advice and “danced and sang in Israel for the benefit of the US president” in 2017. Modi’s government has dismissed the allegations as “trashy ruminations by a convicted criminal.”
The controversy centers around an email sent by Epstein on July 6, 2017, referencing Modi’s visit to Israel.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed Modi’s official visit to Israel but denies any wrongdoing. However, the opposition is seeking answers on the nature of Modi’s relationship with Epstein and the implications of the alleged advice.
Allegations Related to the Adani Case
In November 2024, U.S. authorities filed charges against Gautam Adani and his nephew Sagar Adani for alleged securities fraud and bribery involving Indian officials to secure solar energy contracts. The SEC and DOJ accused them of a scheme worth over $250 million, leading to arrest warrants.
Adani, a prominent business figure with links to the BJP, hired attorney Robert Giuffra Jr., who has also represented Trump in legal matters.
Service of legal documents was delayed for over a year due to the Adanis’ location in India, but on January 30, 2026, their lawyers agreed to accept the summons, allowing the civil case to proceed.
Opposition critics, including Gandhi, have connected the case to the trade agreement, arguing that it targets Modi’s network and may have prompted concessions. They point to the timing, noting the resolution of procedural issues shortly before the deal’s announcement. The government has not directly addressed these claims in relation to the trade pact.
Overall India-US trade deal in short
(1) US will now pay 0% tariffs (earlier it was 70%)
India will now pay 18% Tariffs (earlier it was 50%)
(2) India will buy at least $500 billion of U.S. Energy, Technology, Agricultural, Coal, and many other products.
(3) India will not buy Russian oil (will more buy US/ Venezuela oil)
Original article
Comments