Congress clarifies Priyanka Gandhi’s absence from Waqf Bill debate
New Delhi: Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi was absent from the Lok Sabha debate on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, leading to questions about her party’s stance and discipline. Reports indicate that she is currently abroad for the medical treatment of a close relative. She had reportedly obtained prior approval for her travel, formally informing the Speaker in writing and notifying the Congress Parliamentary Party.
The Congress had issued a whip mandating the presence of all its Lok Sabha MPs for three consecutive days to oppose the bill. However, Gandhi’s absence drew criticism, with some questioning the party’s commitment to challenging the legislation. In response, the Congress Parliamentary Committee clarified that her absence did not violate the party whip.
Rahul Gandhi, who was also missing at the start of the debate, arrived later but, according to critics, did not actively participate. However, he later criticised the bill on social media, calling it a “weapon to marginalise Muslims.”
The absence of senior Congress leaders sparked criticism on social media, with many questioning why they stayed away despite the party’s vocal opposition to the bill outside Parliament.
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China urges India to join forces against U.S. tariffs amid growing trade tensions
New Delhi: The Chinese Embassy in India has called for solidarity between China and India in the face of escalating trade tensions triggered by the United States’ recent tariff hike.
On 8 April 2025, Yu Jing, spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy, highlighted the mutual benefits of China-India trade ties and encouraged both nations to work together to address the challenges posed by the U.S. administration’s tariff policy.
On 2 April 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 10% baseline tariff on all imports, with higher rates for selected countries. As a result, China now faces a cumulative tariff of 54% on its exports to the U.S., while India is subject to a 26% tariff. The move, intended to address trade imbalances, has caused ripples across the global economy.
In response, China has announced a 34% tariff on all U.S. goods, effective from 10 April 2025. President Trump has warned of an additional 50% tariff on Chinese imports unless Beijing retracts its retaliatory measures.
The embassy’s appeal for unity comes as Beijing seeks to build alliances amid increasing trade friction with Washington. However, experts remain sceptical about the possibility of deeper China-India cooperation due to longstanding political and strategic differences between the two neighbours.
