Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday launched a sharp attack on the Union Government’s foreign policy, highlighting concerns over China’s occupation of Indian territory and the recent tariff hike imposed by the United States.
Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Gandhi claimed that China has taken control of 4,000 km of Indian land and criticized the government’s handling of the issue. He expressed dismay over Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s visit to China, where he was seen cutting a cake with Chinese Ambassador Xu Feihong to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations.
“China has taken over 4,000 km of our land, 20 jawans were martyred, and yet, we are celebrating with them? Cutting a cake with the Chinese Ambassador while they continue to occupy our land is shocking,” Gandhi remarked.
Emphasizing the need to restore status quo ante, he added, “We are not against normalizing ties, but first, we must reclaim our land.”
Gandhi also criticized the ruling NDA government for failing to communicate with the opposition regarding diplomatic developments.
“I recently learned that the Prime Minister and the President wrote to China. Ironically, it was the Chinese Ambassador who informed us, not our own government,” he said, questioning the lack of transparency.
Turning to the US’s recent decision to impose a 26% tariff, Gandhi warned that it would have a devastating effect on India’s economy.
“Our ally has suddenly imposed a 26% tariff. This will severely impact our auto industry, pharmaceutical sector, and agriculture. The government must clarify how it plans to respond,” he said.
Taking a dig at the ruling BJP and RSS, Gandhi recalled a statement by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who was once asked about her foreign policy stance.
“When Indira Gandhi was asked if she leaned left or right, she said she stood straight as an Indian. The BJP and RSS, on the other hand, have a different philosophy. They bow their heads before every foreigner who visits. This is part of their culture and history,” he remarked.
Demanding clarity from the government, Gandhi questioned: “What are you doing to reclaim our land? And what action will you take against the tariff our ally has imposed on us?”
His remarks come in the backdrop of India and China’s agreement on patrolling arrangements in the Depsang Plains and Demchok areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). This agreement was reached following military and diplomatic-level discussions in October 2024.
Additionally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks at the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, where PM Modi emphasized the importance of peaceful dispute resolution.
As tensions persist on multiple fronts, Gandhi’s speech signals renewed opposition pressure on the government to address pressing foreign policy challenges.
