RSS wing seeks bans, boycott of US firms for tariffs over Russian oil purchase

An affiliate of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has demanded a boycott of American companies. The call stems from U.S. tariffs imposed on Indian goods, which the organization links to India's purchase of Russian oil. This move signals a strong stance against perceived trade injustices by the U.S.

The statement from the Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM), an RSS wing, arrives as RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat prepares for an international outreach tour. Bhagwat is scheduled to visit the U.S. and Canada in the coming weeks. The timing suggests the boycott call is intended to exert pressure and highlight grievances during this high-profile visit.

The SJM's demand underscores a growing tension in India's trade relations. The organization aims to protect India's economic interests and assert its right to independent foreign policy decisions, particularly concerning energy procurement. The call for a boycott reflects a strategy to counter what it views as unfair trade practices by the United States.