What Changed Since Galwan? Chinese Communist Party Delegation Meets BJP and RSS Leaders

New Delhi: A delegation from the Chinese Communist Party (CPC) visited India on Monday, holding high-profile meetings first at the BJP headquarters and then at the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) headquarters in Delhi. These interactions come after nearly five years of strained relations following the violent clashes in the Galwan Valley in June 2020, marking a significant step in diplomatic and political dialogue between the two parties.

Meeting with BJP Leaders

The six-member CPC delegation, led by Vice Minister Sun Haiyan of the CPC’s International Department, met with BJP national leaders at the party headquarters in Delhi. The meeting focused on strengthening inter-party communication and dialogue between the BJP and CPC. BJP General Secretary Arun Singh shared photos and details of the discussions on social media. BJP’s foreign affairs in-charge Dr. Vijay Chauthaiwale confirmed that the talks included the Indian Ambassador to China, Shu Feihong, highlighting the diplomatic significance of the engagement.

Interaction with RSS Officials

Following the BJP headquarters meeting, the CPC delegation visited the RSS headquarters in Nagpur, meeting Sarkaryavah Dattatreya Hosabale. This engagement coincides with the RSS celebrating its centenary year, making the visit notable in both political and historical context.

Membership Comparison and Political Context

The CPC, according to China’s State Council Information Office, had over 102.7 million members at the end of 2024. The BJP, claiming to be the world’s largest political party, has a membership of over 180 million following its latest enrollment drive in 2025.

Despite political controversies and past accusations—such as the BJP alleging secret deals between the Congress and CPC during the 2017 Doklam standoff, which the Congress has denied—BJP leaders emphasized that inter-party discussions are routine in global politics. A BJP official, speaking anonymously, said, “Political parties across the world engage in dialogue regularly. Nepal sent a delegation recently, and BJP leaders have visited China multiple times. This meeting is public and does not involve signing any deals.”

Shift in Relations After Modi’s China Visit

Historically, BJP delegations have met CPC leaders since the early 2000s. However, the 2020 Galwan clashes created a significant gap in bilateral trust. The thaw began after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to China in October 2024 for the BRICS Summit, which strengthened diplomatic talks and enabled direct flight routes between the countries. Monday’s meetings underscore continued efforts to normalize and enhance political communication, reflecting evolving India-China relations in the post-Galwan era.