Congress seeks Piyush Goyal’s clarification on proposed U.S. Bill for 100% tariff on India over Russian oil purchases
The Indian National Congress has demanded that Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal clarify the government's stance on a proposed U.S. bill that could impose 100% tariffs on India for purchasing Russian oil. The legislation, backed by Republican senators, targets India alongside several other nations.
Why it matters
This highlights potential geopolitical friction between India and the U.S. regarding energy security and foreign policy alignment amidst the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
The Congress on Wednesday (July 15, 2026) asked Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal to clarify the Centre’s position after a bipartisan group of U.S. senators introduced a Bill proposing 100% tariffs on imports from India and four other countries for continuing to purchase Russian oil.
The proposed legislation, initiated by Republican Senator late Lindsey Graham, seeks to impose punitive tariffs on India, China, Slovakia, Hungary and Azerbaijan.
It exempts 15 European countries that continue to import Russian gas, arguing that such imports account for only a small share of their energy needs and that they are reducing their dependence on Moscow.
Congress media and publicity department chairman Pawan Khera questioned the government’s response to the development and said Mr. Goyal should explain its implications for India.
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