Congress President Criticizes Governments Approach to China Amidst Border Tensions
Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge questions government transparency on China relations amid ongoing border conflicts and rising trade deficits.
New Delhi, October 23 (Daily Kiran) : Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has raised pointed questions regarding the central government’s stance on relations with China. He urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to engage with the opposition and the public instead of targeting them.
In a strongly worded post on the social media platform X, Kharge stated, “Enough is enough with the clean chits given to China. Prime Minister Modi must present the truth to India.”
Kharge highlighted three critical issues: national security, economic safety, and diplomatic accountability. On the matter of national security, he expressed deep concern following the confirmation of ongoing skirmishes with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in Arunachal Pradesh by the Director General of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police.
Recalling past confrontations in Doklam and Galwan, he questioned whether another serious clash is emerging. He referenced reports of Chinese incursions near Takshing in August and noted that skirmishes have not ceased even 47 days after core commander-level talks in Wacha-Damai, located just 180 kilometers away.
Kharge questioned whether India’s patrol access has been compromised and emphasized that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India. He demanded transparency on such a crucial issue.
Turning to economic security, Kharge pointed out a staggering 102% increase in Chinese imports since the Galwan clash in the fiscal year 2020-21, with the bilateral trade deficit soaring 155% to reach $112.16 billion. He reminded that 20 Indian soldiers lost their lives during the Galwan conflict. He also noted that Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman acknowledged ongoing Chinese obstacles to Indian exports.
Despite this, Kharge accused the government of relaxing restrictions on Chinese investments and considering benefits for eligible Chinese-related enterprises under production-linked incentives. He questioned whether the “Make in India” initiative has effectively turned into an endorsement of imports from China.
On the topic of diplomatic accountability, Kharge referenced numerous high-level meetings with China, including at least 23 dialogues between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping, 25 rounds of talks involving National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and 36 meetings for consultation and coordination.
He sought to know the tangible outcomes of these discussions and whether India’s patrol rights along the border, as they existed before May 2020, have been fully restored. Kharge expressed confidence in the armed forces, insisting that genuine accountability is required instead of mere diplomatic gestures or so-called “hugplomacy.”
He urged the Prime Minister to cease attacks on the opposition and instead present all facts to Parliament and the people of India.
