The political tussle over trade and tariffs escalated on Wednesday as AAP convenor Arvind Kejriwal launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi for removing the 11% import duty on American cotton. Kejriwal accused the PM of “betraying farmers” under US pressure and demanded that instead of scrapping the duty, India should impose a 100% tariff on US cotton.

“PM Modi Betrayed Farmers”

Addressing the media, Kejriwal said,
“PM Modi has taken decisions behind the backs of farmers. This is a huge betrayal. Under Trump’s pressure, the 11% duty on American cotton has been withdrawn. This will destroy Indian farmers.”

He claimed that American cotton, now cheaper by ₹15–20 per kg, would dominate the market ahead of India’s harvest in October. “By the time our farmers’ cotton reaches the market, the textile industry will have already bought from the US. Who will buy our farmers’ crop then?” he asked.

Farmers’ Crisis

Kejriwal said the move would severely affect farmers across Gujarat, Telangana, Punjab, and Vidarbha—regions already vulnerable to agrarian distress and suicides. “Instead of protecting our farmers, Modi ji has stabbed them in the back,” he alleged.

Attack on Modi–Trump Ties and Adani Link

Kejriwal also accused Modi of bowing to US pressure, unlike countries such as China, Canada, and the EU, which raised tariffs in retaliation to American duties.
“Trump is a coward. If we had imposed 100% tariff, he would have backed down. But Modi ji is acting like a wet cat. People are saying Modi is protecting Adani because his arrest is being discussed. Has Modi bowed down for Adani?” Kejriwal charged.

The Government’s Stand

The Finance Ministry recently extended the duty-free import of cotton until December 31, 2025, citing the need to support Indian textile exporters hit by Washington’s 50% tariff on Indian goods.
The exemption covers:

• 5% Basic Customs Duty (BCD)

• 5% Agriculture Infrastructure and Development Cess (AIDC)

• 10% Social Welfare Surcharge
  Together, this amounted to an 11% duty waiver on American cotton.

Kejriwal’s Demand

“We demand that the 11% duty be immediately restored and a 100% tariff imposed on American cotton. This is not just an issue of farmers but of the honour of 140 crore Indians,” Kejriwal declared, adding that AAP would stand with the government if it takes a strong stance against the US.