India Responds to New U.S. Tariffs as Legislative Debates Continue
The article covers key events including the Rajya Sabha’s debates on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, U.S. tariffs imposed on India, Prime Minister Modi’s attendance at the BIMSTEC summit, and the Supreme Court’s rulings on environmental issues. It highlights the socio-economic implications of these events for India and its global relations.
The Rajya Sabha engaged in a significant discussion regarding the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, following its recent passage in the Lok Sabha after a lengthy 12-hour debate. The bill was approved with a vote of 288 in favor and 232 against, while several opposition clauses were dismissed. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced that the DMK plans to challenge the bill in the Supreme Court, stating it jeopardizes the religious harmony in India and adversely affects the Muslim minority community.
In international news, President Donald Trump imposed new tariffs aimed at countries with high tariffs on American products, including a 26% tariff on imports from India. This initiative seeks to improve the U.S. trade deficit and boost domestic manufacturing. Countries like the UK and Brazil will face a base rate of 10% tariffs, while custom reciprocal tariffs will target about 60 other nations, including China and Japan. Certain goods, such as pharmaceuticals and energy, remain exempt from these tariffs.
India has cautiously responded to Trump’s tariffs, stating that it is assessing their potential impacts. The Indian Department of Commerce is gathering feedback from exporters and stakeholders to evaluate the situation. Ongoing discussions are expected to enhance a multi-sectoral Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) between India and the U.S. amid these developments.
Prime Minister Modi is currently attending the sixth BIMSTEC summit in Thailand, where he will engage with various regional leaders. At the summit, Modi discussed strengthening partnerships, notably focusing on cooperation in sectors like handloom and MSME with Thailand’s Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
In environmental news, the Supreme Court halted tree felling in Kancha Gachibowli, emphasizing the need for ecological preservation. This decision was made twenty-four hours post the Telangana High Court’s order, following protests from students and environmentalists against land auctions in the area.
Additionally, the Samsung India Workers’ Union (SIWU) has issued a strike notice demanding the reinstatement of 23 suspended workers, marking a significant labor movement following their recent protest withdrawal. In Manipur, the Lok Sabha confirmed the imposition of President’s rule amid opposition criticism, claiming the government has taken adequate steps towards restoring order.
The Supreme Court maintained a ban on firecrackers in Delhi-NCR, citing persistent air pollution levels as justification for the ruling. Lastly, an earthquake in Myanmar has resulted in over 3,000 fatalities, with ongoing rescue operations revealing more casualties as authorities address the crisis at the BIMSTEC summit.
The key highlights include the Rajya Sabha’s debate on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, Trump’s tariffs impacting India and other nations, and Prime Minister Modi’s engagements at the BIMSTEC summit. The Supreme Court’s environmental rulings and labor actions at Samsung India reflect ongoing social and economic challenges. Overall, these matters underscore significant legislative and policy developments both domestically and internationally as India navigates complex political and economic landscapes.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
