Chicago – February 12, 2026
Indian trade unions and farmers’ organizations staged a nationwide strike Thursday to oppose an interim trade deal with the United States, accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government of sacrificing rural livelihoods and small businesses to market-driven reforms.
In parliament, opposition lawmakers demanded the pact be scrapped, chanting “Narendra Modi, surrender Modi” as they warned of mounting public anger ahead of key state elections later this year. The one-day action partially disrupted public services and factory work across several states, signaling broad resistance to the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party’s economic agenda.
Union leaders argue the agreement will open India to subsidized U.S. farm products, undercutting millions of small farmers already under strain. “Cheap American farm produce will be dumped in India, making it difficult for our farmers and small businesses to compete,” said Amarjeet Kaur, general secretary of the All India Trade Union Congress.
The government defends the deal as a step toward boosting exports, attracting investment and deepening strategic ties with Washington, insisting agriculture and dairy interests are protected.
