NEW DELHI: Launching a sharp attack on the Centre over its border and foreign policy, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge demanded answers from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging that “enough clean chits” have been given to Beijing and that the Prime Minister must “come clean before India.”
In a post on X, the Congress chief posed three key questions to the Prime Minister concerning national security, economic dependence, and diplomatic accountability.
Targeting the government on border security, Kharge pointed to reported remarks by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Director General regarding face-offs with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in Arunachal Pradesh.
“The ITBP DG’s confirmation of continuing PLA face-offs in Arunachal Pradesh is deeply alarming. After Doklam and Galwan, is another serious confrontation unfolding? Reports of Chinese incursions near Taksing emerged in August. Yet, even 47 days after Corps Commander-level talks at Wacha–Damai, reportedly just 180 km away, confrontations continue.
Has India’s patrolling access been compromised?” Kharge asked, asserting that Arunachal Pradesh is an inseparable part of India and questioning why the nation is being “kept in the dark.”
The Congress president also raised sharp concerns over the surging trade deficit with China, questioning the government’s economic stance following the 2020 Galwan Valley clash.
“Since the Galwan sacrifice of 20 Indian Army bravehearts (FY2020–21), Chinese imports have surged 102%, while India’s trade deficit with China has ballooned 155% to $112.16 billion. Even Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman admits China obstructs Indian exports. Yet, the Government is easing Chinese investment restrictions and considering PLI benefits for eligible China-linked ventures. Has Make in India become Import from China?” he said.
On diplomatic engagements, Kharge questioned the ground-level outcomes of multiple bilateral discussions held between the two nations over the years.
“At least 23 reported Modi–Xi meetings and interactions, 25 Special Representatives’ rounds involving NSA Ajit Doval, 36 WMCC meetings, and successive SCO and BRICS Summits. What tangible results have these engagements delivered? Have India’s pre-May 2020 patrolling rights been fully restored?” Kharge asked.
Reaffirming the party’s trust in the armed forces, Kharge took a swipe at the government’s outreach efforts, saying that national security cannot rely on optics.
“Our Armed Forces have our complete confidence. But National security demands accountability, not diplomatic photo opportunities & Hugplomacy! Instead of attacking the Opposition, PM Modi must take Parliament and the Nation into confidence,” Kharge added.
