"Vishwaguru’s calibrated concessions to China continue": Jairam Ramesh accuses Centre of ignoring China threat
Congress MP Jairam Ramesh slams the Centre over border tensions in Arunachal Pradesh and a record trade deficit with China.
Congress MP Jairam Ramesh has launched a scathing attack on the Central government, accusing it of making "calibrated concessions" to China while remaining silent on critical border tensions and national security threats.
Silence on Border Face-offs
Taking to X, Ramesh highlighted a stark contrast between the actions of the military and the rhetoric of the government. He pointed out that while the Director General of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) praised the force's performance during recent face-offs with the People's Liberation Army (PLA) in Arunachal Pradesh, the Prime Minister and his administration have maintained a "deafening silence" on the matter.
The Congress leader noted that Corps commander talks took place at Wacha and Damai in Arunachal Pradesh last month following the Taksing face-off. However, he alleged that local reports suggest India has once again lost patrolling points, mirroring the situation previously seen in Ladakh.
Ecological and Territorial Concerns
Beyond the immediate border clashes, Ramesh raised alarms over China's long-term strategies in the region. He specifically mentioned two major threats:
- Renaming Towns: The ongoing practice of China renaming Indian towns within Arunachal Pradesh.
- Mega Dam Project: The construction of a massive 60,000-MW dam by China, which Ramesh claims poses a severe threat to India's water and ecological security.
Economic Security and the 'Trade Deficit'
The Congress MP also linked national security to economic stability, claiming that the "Make in India" initiative has effectively turned into "Import from China." He cited alarming trade figures, stating that India's trade deficit with China surged to a record $112 billion in 2025–26, rising from $99 billion the previous year.
"This staggering trade deficit is in itself a very significant threat to our economic security," Ramesh wrote, adding that this trend has crushed Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across various industries.
Questioning Leadership and Military Guidance
Ramesh revisited the events of June 19, 2020, recalling Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement after the martyrdom of 20 Indian soldiers, where the PM asserted that no one had entered Indian territory and no posts had been captured. Ramesh argued that India is still paying the price for this "clean chit" given to China.
The MP further cited revelations from high-ranking military figures to question the government's handling of the crisis:
- Gen. Naravane: The retired Chief of Army Staff allegedly revealed that during Chinese incursions in Ladakh, his only instructions from the top were, "Do what you think is appropriate."
- Lt. Gen. Rahul Singh: On July 4, 2025, the Deputy Chief of Army Staff spoke publicly about China's extensive role in Pakistan's military campaign during Operation Sindoor.
Ramesh concluded by noting that retired Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Anil Chauhan publicly contradicted Lt. Gen. Rahul Singh's revelations on August 25, 2026, shortly before taking a position at a think tank associated with the RSS/BJP ecosystem.