Kharge, Rahul to lead Congress rally against India-US trade deal in Bhopal on February 24 ‎

The Congress party on Saturday announced that its president, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi will spearhead a major programme in Bhopal on February 24 to protest against the proposed India-US trade agreement terming it “injustice” to farmers.
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In an official statement, the party said Kharge and Gandhi would lead the programme being organised to safeguard farmers’ interests and amplify concerns over provisions in the trade deal that it believes could harm India’s agricultural community.

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‎The announcement came amid intensifying political exchanges over the recently unveiled agreement between India and the United States. The Congress argued that certain clauses may negatively affect domestic farmers, particularly with regard to agricultural imports, price protections, and access to markets.

‎Senior leaders within the party have warned that small and marginal farmers could face heightened competition from foreign agricultural goods if adequate safeguards are not built into the framework. The party has also raised questions about the transparency of the negotiations and the timing of the announcement.

‎A spokesperson said the February 24 event would act as a platform to bring together farmers, agricultural labourers, and civil society groups to press for what the party described as fair terms that protect India’s rural economy.

Bhopal, capital of Madhya Pradesh, holds political importance and is surrounded by districts with significant agrarian populations. By selecting the city as the venue, the Congress appears to be aiming to energise rural voters and underscore farmer welfare as a central campaign theme.

‎Kharge and Gandhi are expected to address a public gathering and engage with farmer representatives, reiterating demands for greater openness in trade negotiations and stronger safeguards for domestic agriculture.

‎The rally forms part of a broader outreach push by the Congress to consolidate support among farmers and rural communities. In recent months, the party has sharpened its critique of the central government’s economic and trade approach, positioning itself as a defender of agrarian interests.

‎The government, however, has defended the trade agreement, asserting that it will open new export avenues, attract investment, and reinforce India’s position in the global economy. Officials have maintained that adequate protections are in place for sensitive sectors, including agriculture.

‎With both sides holding firm, the February 24 programme in Bhopal is likely to further intensify the political debate surrounding the trade deal and its potential impact on India’s farming sector.