Indian equity benchmarks closed sharply lower after a broad-based sell-off rattled investor confidence. The Sensex plunged 621 points, while the NIFTY50 slipped below the crucial 26,000 mark, reflecting heightened risk aversion across sectors. Fears surrounding a proposed 500 percent tariff escalation in global trade discussions triggered concerns over export demand and supply-chain stability. Weakness in information technology and metal stocks amplified the downturn, as investors reassessed earnings visibility amid rising geopolitical and macroeconomic uncertainty.