Kuldeep Dhaliwal: Modi Govt surrendering India’s interests to US under Trump pressure
Babushahi Bureau
Amritsar (Punjab), May 18, 2026: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab Chief Spokesperson and MLA Kuldeep Dhaliwal launched a strong attack on the BJP-led Central Government, accusing it of compromising India’s national interests in recent international trade arrangements with the United States.
Dhaliwal alleged that under the current policy direction, India has been pushed to reduce oil imports from Russia and increase dependence on costlier supplies from the United States and its allied nations. He claimed this shift has placed an additional financial burden on the country.
He further stated that earlier India was sourcing a significant portion of its crude oil requirements from Russia at relatively lower prices, but that share has now declined sharply. According to him, this change will ultimately impact domestic fuel prices.
Warning of possible price hikes, Dhaliwal said petrol, diesel, and CNG rates are likely to rise in the coming days, adding that recent increases in CNG prices reflect a broader trend of rising fuel costs.
He also cautioned that the upcoming paddy sowing season in Punjab, beginning June 1, could be affected if diesel prices increase further, placing additional strain on farmers.
Criticising the Centre’s economic approach, Dhaliwal alleged that the government’s policies are anti-farmer and harmful to Punjab’s agricultural economy. He claimed that rising fuel costs could directly impact farming operations during the crucial sowing period.
The AAP leader said that India is being placed under increasing economic pressure due to international trade decisions, which he described as unfavorable to domestic interests.
He further reiterated that his party strongly opposes any policy that, in his view, weakens India’s economic independence and places undue burden on farmers and common citizens.