February 17, New Delhi: Sam Pitroda, a prominent leader from the Indian Overseas Congress (IOC), stirred controversy recently by suggesting that India should reconsider viewing China as an enemy, advocating for greater communication and collaboration between the two nations.
In an interview with IANS, Pitroda expressed confusion over the perception of China as a threat, arguing that the issue is often exaggerated, especially by the United States, which tends to define countries as enemies. He emphasized the need for nations to focus on networking, rather than fostering confrontation. According to Pitroda, India’s approach to China has been confrontational from the start, a mindset that breeds hostility and generates internal support by framing China as an adversary.
He proposed shifting this mindset to one of cooperation and communication, stressing that labeling China as the enemy from the outset is neither fair nor productive.
Pitroda called for an overhaul of India’s approach, urging more engagement, collaboration, and cooperation, rather than maintaining a “command and control” attitude. This stance was controversial, drawing sharp criticism from leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
They pointed to historical conflicts between India and China, emphasizing the importance of maintaining national security and respecting the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers. BJP leaders argued that Pitroda’s misguided remarks undermined the country’s security concerns.
In response to the controversy, Jairam Ramesh, a senior member of the Indian National Congress (INC), clarified that Pitroda’s statements did not reflect the official position of the Congress party. He reaffirmed that China remains a significant challenge for India in terms of foreign policy, security, and economic matters.
Ramesh pointed out that the Congress party has consistently questioned the Modi government’s approach to China, specifically highlighting the Prime Minister’s stance in June 2020 when he granted a public “clean chit” to China.
Ramesh also expressed regret over the government’s refusal to allow a parliamentary discussion on the issue, which he believed was crucial for formulating a united, strategic response to China’s growing influence and actions. This statement reflects the ongoing tension in India’s approach to its relationship with China, underscoring the divide between calls for dialogue and the need for national security vigilance.
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