Questions raised on Centre’s economic policies as dollar strengthens and rupee weakens amid U.S.-Iran tensions: Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa

Chandigarh, March 28, 2026: MP from Gurdaspur and former Deputy Chief Minister of Punjab, Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, has sharply criticized the central government over the continuous strengthening of the dollar and the weakening of the rupee amid rising military tensions between the United States and Iran. He said the BJP government cannot hide its economic policy failures behind the excuse of global conditions. The falling rupee also indicates weakening international confidence in India’s economy. He added that he has heard Modi speak many times about the falling rupee as a Chief Minister, but is now waiting to hear his views as Prime Minister. It is unclear when Modi will break his silence and address the weakening rupee.
He said the central government must explain that if the economy is as strong as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government repeatedly claim, then why does the rupee continue to depreciate against the dollar? Modi had earlier claimed that the rupee would be strengthened to the extent that the dollar would fall to around 40 rupees. However, today the dollar has crossed 94, and estimates suggest it could cross 100. Randhawa said the falling rupee has a direct impact on the prices of petrol, diesel, cooking gas, and imported goods, thereby increasing inflation and placing a heavy burden on the common people.
Randhawa further stated that the war-like situation between the United States and Iran is directly affecting global markets, but its impact is more pronounced in India because the government has focused on propaganda instead of strengthening the economy. He said that whenever global tensions rise, countries with strong economies are able to stabilize their currencies, but in India, the rupee weakens rapidly during every crisis. This, he said, clearly indicates weak economic policies and a lack of a concrete strategy by the government.
He alleged that the central government is trying to evade responsibility by citing international conditions, whereas the truth is that flawed economic policies, rising debt, and weak financial management are increasing pressure on the country’s currency.
Randhawa warned that if the central government does not take concrete economic measures in time, inflation and unemployment could worsen in the future. He demanded that the government implement effective and transparent policies to strengthen the economy, stabilize the rupee, and provide relief to the common people. He added that the Congress Party has always raised its voice for economic stability and the interests of the public and will continue to do so.