US tariffs reflect failure of diplomacy: Kharge

NEW DELHI: Calling the 50% US tariffs on India a result of the failure of PM Modi's diplomacy, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge Wednesday said a robust foreign policy needs substance and craft, but Modi had relied on superficial engagements of hugs and smiles. He said the tariffs will cause a jolt of Rs 2.2 lakh crore across just 10 sectors and lead to massive job losses, but the PM has done nothing to cushion the blow to these enterprises.

In a jibe at him, Kharge reminded Modi that "your dear friend 'Abki Baar, Trump Sarkar' has imposed 50% Tariffs on India... Indian national interest is supreme. A robust foreign policy needs substance and deft, but your superficial Foreign Policy engagements - smiles, hugs and selfies - have hurt our interests". He added, "Our farmers, especially cotton farmers, are badly hit. You had said you are ready to pay any 'personal price' to protect them, but you have done absolutely nothing ... You failed in securing a trade deal. Now you are failing to protect our country."

Congress MP Manickam Tagore said: "From Howdy Modi to Goodbye jobs, your PR gimmicks have betrayed India's workers and farmers. India deserves substance, not selfies."