New Delhi, Feb 12 (UNI) Opposition Members of Parliament on Thursday staged a protest outside Makar Dwar at Parliament House, alleging that certain provisions in the proposed Indo-US trade agreement are “anti-people” and detrimental to farmers’ interests. The MPs also expressed solidarity with farmers’ organisations that have called for an All India Bandh on Thursday in protest against the deal.
Carrying placards and raising slogans, the protesting MPs accused the government of negotiating trade terms that, they claimed, could adversely impact India’s agricultural sector, small traders, and domestic industries. They demanded greater transparency in the negotiations and called for a detailed discussion in Parliament before the agreement is finalised.
“The government must clarify which sectors are being opened up and at what cost to our farmers and small producers,” one opposition leader said during the demonstration. The MPs alleged that certain clauses relating to agricultural imports, market access, and intellectual property rights could expose Indian farmers to unfair competition and threaten livelihoods.
The protest coincided with a nationwide bandh call given by several farmers’ groups, who have voiced concerns that the trade pact may lead to increased imports of agricultural products, potentially affecting domestic prices and procurement systems. Farmer leaders have argued that without adequate safeguards, small and marginal farmers could bear the brunt of the agreement.
The Indo-US trade negotiations have been underway as part of broader efforts to deepen economic ties between the two countries. Both sides have been working to resolve long-standing trade issues, including tariffs, market access, digital trade, and regulatory standards. The government has maintained that the agreement aims to boost exports, attract investment, and create jobs, while protecting sensitive sectors.
Responding to the protest, government sources said that national interests, particularly those of farmers and small businesses, would not be compromised.
As Parliament’s Budget Session continues, the issue is expected to trigger further debate, with the opposition pressing for a comprehensive statement from the government on the status and implications of the proposed trade deal.
