Modi Rolls Out Red Carpet for China, Surrenders Before Trump: Congress Criticizes Government’s Foreign Policy

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Friday launched a scathing attack on the central government over reports suggesting that it plans to lift five-year-old restrictions on Chinese companies. Kharge described Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s foreign policy as erratic and unstable, likening it to a pendulum that swings unpredictably.

Disrespect to Gallant Soldiers in Galwan
Kharge criticized Modi’s earlier promise of “I will not let the country bow down”, arguing that current actions contradict this pledge. He said that the sacrifices of Indian soldiers martyred in the Galwan Valley clash were disrespected when Modi gave China what he termed a “clean chit.” Now, by rolling out the red carpet for Chinese firms, Kharge asserted, the government is demonstrating the hidden depth of China’s “red glare.”

Silence Before Trump: A Sign of Surrender
Kharge further condemned PM Modi’s silence regarding comments by US President Donald Trump on India’s Russian oil imports, calling it a symbolic surrender. He stated:
“President Trump comments daily on India’s trade in Russian oil, yet Modi remains silent, averting his gaze. This silence is a compromise of national interests.” He added that the government’s flip-flop in foreign policy undermines India’s non-aligned and independent stance, and the burden of this inconsistency ultimately falls on the Indian people.

Efforts to Normalize India-China Relations
The restrictions on Chinese companies were initially imposed in 2020 following the violent clashes in Galwan Valley. However, under changing circumstances and US pressure, India and China have sought to normalize ties. Following PM Modi’s visit to China last year and his meeting with President Xi Jinping, both countries agreed to increase cooperation and engagement.

Kharge’s remarks reflect Congress’s position that the government’s approach to both China and the US shows weakness and inconsistency, raising questions about India’s strategic priorities in the current global landscape.