India Faces Strategic Setback Amid Rising China Tensions, Says Congress Leader

Jairam Ramesh criticizes PM Modi's handling of China relations, citing territorial and economic setbacks. He calls for national consensus on security and economic challenges, noting Pakistan-China military cooperation. Ramesh urges parliamentary debate to address dependence on Chinese imports and reinforce India's strategic positioning.

In a stark critique of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's approach to China, Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh declared the 2024 withdrawal agreement a "tremendous territorial setback" for India. He lambasted Modi's "infamous clean chit to China," given shortly after the Galwan clash where Indian soldiers lost their lives.

Ramesh underscored that the accord demands Indian patrols obtain Chinese approval to access critical areas in Depsang, Demchok, and Chumar. He highlighted that buffer zones in Galwan and Pangong Tso compromise India's historical access to these regions, marking a significant departure from the pre-2020 status quo.

The Congress leader also spotlighted burgeoning Chinese imports, stressing dependency on electronics and pharmaceuticals sectors. With a trade deficit peaking at $99.2 billion, Ramesh criticized the External Affairs Minister's remarks on the economic disparity. Additionally, he raised concerns about China's influence in Pakistan's military strategies and advocated for a comprehensive parliamentary discussion to forge a national consensus.

(With inputs from agencies.)