‘Trump Tariffs Crushed Us’: Rahul Gandhi Flags Badhohi’s Collapse
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi with Bhadohi weavers. (Image INC on X)
From ‘Carpet City’ to crisis zone—Rahul Gandhi says U.S. tariff shocks and policy silence have pushed Badhohi’s weavers to the brink
By AMIT KUMAR
New Delhi, December 18, 2025 — Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday said the “devastating impact of U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff regime is now unfolding on the ground, with Badhohi’s famed carpet industry emerging as a stark casualty.” He accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of remaining “hidden and silent” while millions suffered the economic fallout.
“I had warned earlier that Trump’s tariffs would arrive like an economic storm, hurting crores of people. Today, Badhohi’s weavers are narrating that warning as lived reality,” Gandhi said after interacting with artisans at a jansansad in the Uttar Pradesh district.
During the meeting, local weavers presented Gandhi with a handwoven carpet, showcasing centuries-old craftsmanship that once earned Badhohi the title of India’s ‘Carpet City’. That legacy, Gandhi said, is now under severe threat.
According to the artisans, per Rahul Gandhi’s post on Facebook, U.S. tariff policies hostile to Indian exports have sharply reduced overseas demand, pushing the once-thriving carpet trade into distress. Gandhi alleged that the government failed to counter the impact either through diplomatic engagement or a targeted national revival plan.
“The result is clear—exports are falling, and business is shifting to Bangladesh, Pakistan and Nepal,” he said, adding that the crisis is unfolding in the Prime Minister’s own parliamentary backyard. “It is a classic case of chiraag tale andhera,” he remarked, accusing the Centre of turning a blind eye to weavers’ hardships.
Gandhi highlighted that the handloom sector—central to India’s cultural identity and a livelihood for lakhs—now faces exploitation, shrinking incomes and a near-total absence of social security. Many artisan families, he noted, lack access even to affordable healthcare.
“These are the small industries and small businesses I keep talking about,” Gandhi said. “They generate jobs, strengthen the economy and carry India forward—but are being ignored.”
Calling for urgent policy intervention, Gandhi said economic support and targeted trade measures were essential to restore dignity, demand and opportunity for traditional artisans, enabling them to once again power India’s growth story.
India for Constructive Dialogue with Mexico over 50% Tariffs
Follow The Raisina Hills on WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn
About The Author
