Congress Slams PM Modi’s Silence on China, Arunachal Face-Offs

New Delhi: The Congress on Friday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of maintaining a “deafening silence” on China. The party raised concerns over reported border face-offs in Arunachal Pradesh, Beijing’s activities in the region and India’s growing trade deficit with its neighbour.

Ramesh Flags “Calibrated Concessions”

In a statement, Congress general secretary in-charge of communications Jairam Ramesh alleged that the government continues to make “calibrated concessions to China”. He noted that the Director General of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) had praised the force’s performance during recent face-offs with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in Arunachal Pradesh. Ramesh said the praise was deserved. However, he claimed the Prime Minister and his establishment have said nothing on the matter, despite the seriousness of the reported incidents.

The ITBP is tasked with guarding India’s northern frontier, and its chief’s remarks have brought fresh attention to the situation in Arunachal Pradesh. The Congress argues that such developments warrant a public response from the country’s top leadership rather than silence.

Beyond the reported face-offs, the party also pointed to China’s activities in the region and the widening trade imbalance between the two countries. According to the Congress, these issues together show a pattern in which the government avoids addressing the China challenge openly.

Opposition Presses for Answers

The statement adds to the ongoing political debate over India’s approach to China. By linking the reported border incidents with economic concerns, the Congress is seeking to widen the argument beyond the frontier to include trade dependence on Beijing.

The Congress has called on the government to explain its position and policy on China to the public. This report is based on the Congress statement, and the government’s response to the allegations was not available at the time of writing.