RSS’s economic wing urges Centre to resist U.S. tariff pressure

The Swadeshi Jagaran Manch (SJM), the economic wing of the RSS, has urged the Indian government to firmly resist U.S. pressure regarding India's purchase of Russian crude oil. SJM opposed proposed U.S. Senate legislation authorizing tariffs on countries buying Russian oil, asserting India's sovereign right to make energy policy decisions based on national interest, energy security, and consumer welfare. The organization also criticized recent policy changes concerning foreign investment in e-commerce and the proposed Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions, arguing they could benefit U.S. companies and weaken Indian businesses. SJM called for a stronger response, including reconsidering certain policies and boycotting American products and services if the U.S. continues to act against India's interests.