Baijayant Panda Challenges Congress on China and Pakistan Relations

During a heated discussion in the Lok Sabha on November 6, 2023, BJP MP and national vice-president Baijayant Panda criticized the Congress Party for its silence on relations with China and Pakistan. The debate centered on Operation Sindoor, a military initiative addressing national security concerns, particularly in the context of rising tensions with Pakistan.

Panda challenged Congress’s historical interactions with the Chinese Communist Party, questioning the transparency of their engagements. “Doesn’t the Indian public have a right to know what understanding the Congress has with the Chinese Communist Party?” he asked, emphasizing the need for accountability. He further rebuked the party for its ongoing criticism of the Indian armed forces and the government, suggesting that such actions undermine national unity, especially in the face of external threats.

The discussion has emerged as a focal point during the ongoing monsoon session, with the Opposition pressing for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address the Parliament regarding the India-Pakistan standoff and escalating security issues in Kashmir. Panda pointed out that the Congress has failed to confront the narratives put forth by China and Pakistan in international media, questioning the motives behind their criticisms of Indian forces.

Adding to the political tension, Panda highlighted the absence of prominent Congress figures, including Shashi Tharoor and Manish Tewari, from the list of speakers for the debate. He remarked on Tharoor’s eloquence, suggesting that his voice could have contributed positively to the discourse. Tharoor, when approached about his absence, cryptically referred to “maunvrat,” indicating a period of silence, possibly in protest or reflection.

Panda also commended the efforts of the military under Operation Mahadev, which resulted in the neutralization of three terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir. He noted that at least one of the militants was allegedly associated with the recent Pahalgam terror attack, underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by security forces in the region.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, the Congress Party’s response to these allegations and criticisms may shape the narrative surrounding national security and its approach to foreign relations. The debate on Operation Sindoor not only highlights internal party dynamics within Congress but also raises significant questions about their stance on crucial geopolitical issues.