Parliament erupted in chaos today as Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal defended the India-US trade deal as a "historic" win for India, assuring protection for farmers and dairy sectors. This comes amid the high-stakes Budget Session 2026, where opposition fury over the deal—brokered via a February 2 call between PM Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump—has stalled proceedings.
Goyal's Strong Defense in Lok Sabha
Resuming at noon, Lok Sabha saw Goyal highlight how the deal slashes US tariffs to 18%—lower than on rivals—boosting India's exports while shielding sensitive agriculture and food interests. "The safety of 140 crore Indians is our top priority," he declared, linking it to Viksit Bharat and Atmanirbhar Bharat goals. "This structural agreement strengthens ties between the world's biggest democracies," Goyal added, noting last year's detailed talks safeguarded MSMEs and key sectors.
The House adjourned twice amid uproar, with Speaker Om Birla chiding opposition for breaching decorum by rushing to the well and flashing posters.
Opposition's Fierce Protests Escalate
Eight suspended MPs—seven Congress, one CPI(M)—protested at Makar Gate with placards branding "PM is compromised," featuring PM Modi, ex-Army Chief Naravane, and Jeffrey Epstein. Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi waved Naravane's unpublished memoir, alleging PM lapses on Ladakh incursions, and demanded to speak. "They suppress our voice," said protesting Congress MP Prashant Padole during his sit-in.
Rahul clashed heatedly with MoS Ravneet Singh Bittu, who retorted: "Gandhi family set Punjab on fire." SP's Akhilesh Yadav slammed it as "surrender," not a deal, while Shashi Tharoor called for more details. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra decried suspensions as anti-democratic.
Why This Matters Now
With Budget Session running till April 2—covering nine pending bills like the Securities Markets Code—the India-US trade deal debate underscores economic tensions post-Economic Survey's 6.8-7.2% GDP forecast. As PM Modi addresses at 5 PM on President's speech, opposition demands Rahul's turn highlight democracy strains amid Op Sindoor and global pacts.
Goyal's address resumes in Rajya Sabha at 2 PM. Will protests derail key PAC reports on railways and crop insurance? Stay tuned for live updates—this India-US trade deal could reshape exports, but political heat tests Parliament's resolve.
