Arvind Kejriwal Targets PM Modi Over ‘Swadeshi’ Call, Questions Personal Commitment

Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday took aim at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's renewed appeal for citizens to embrace swadeshi products. Kejriwal questioned the PM's own adherence to the principle, pointing to his use of foreign aircraft, services, and goods. "Why don't you start using swadeshi products yourself?" he asked.

The criticism followed Modi's national address, where he urged Indians to proudly declare "I buy swadeshi," as part of a broader push for economic self-reliance amid rising trade tensions with the US over tariffs and H-1B visa fees. Modi insisted the movement must go beyond rhetoric to everyday action.

Kejriwal, however, argued that leadership by example is crucial. He also raised questions about the government's stance on American companies operating in India, saying the PM's words ring hollow if foreign dominance in key sectors goes unchallenged.

GST 2.0 Unveiled

Alongside the swadeshi pitch, Modi rolled out GST 2.0, a major reform featuring two main slabs-5% and 18%-with ultra-luxury and sin goods taxed at 40%. Describing it as a "GST saving festival," he said the new structure would ease consumer costs while boosting local production and consumption. Tying the move to Navratri celebrations, Modi framed it as a step towards a developed and self-reliant India.

Reacting on X, Kejriwal dismissed the PM's statements as "sermons" without substance, urging stronger action in the face of US pressure under President Trump.

While supporters hailed Modi's swadeshi push as a path to reduced foreign dependency, critics contend that without personal example and concrete policy shifts, the call risks being symbolic rather than transformative.