The latest clash between the Indian and Chinese troops on December 9 near Tawang at the Arunachal Pradesh Line of Actual Control has sparked a torrent of criticism on the Centre from the opposition. The Opposition leaders today staged a walkout in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh concluded his statement on India's border clash with China.
This is the first incident of its kind after the June 15, 2020, incident when 20 Indian soldiers were killed and several others were injured in violent clashes with the PLA troops in Ladakh's Galwan Valley.
Here are some of the remarks by the Opposition leaders against the government-
1. "PM is failing in showing political leadership. Clash happened on Dec 9 & you're making statement today. Had media not reported, you wouldn't have spoken. Take all parties to site of clash. PM scared of taking China's name, his govt scared of speaking about China," All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen president Asaduddin Owaisi said.
2. "We were told by the Leader of the House and Deputy Rajya Sabha Chairman that we would be given a chance for clarification but they did not give it and were not ready to listen to us. This is not good for the country. When they did not give us clarification, all leaders of the opposition parties decided to stage a walkout. We stand together for the unity and integrity of our country, we are with our soldiers," Congress President and Rajya Sabha MP Mallikarjun Kharge said.
He added, "We are one with the nation on the issues of national security and would not like to politicise it. But the Modi government should be honest about the Chinese transgressions and the construction at all points near the LAC since April 2020."
3. "No doubt that China has its eyes on Tawang. We've to be very alert there. I think what our Army did y'day had the support of entire country. I told Defence Min that they should show the world that India is one&every member of every party is with Army on this," Cong MP Shashi Tharoor said.
4. "CPI's consistent position is, border disputes should be resolved. Military way isn't the way. India-China are good friends traditionally. They can meet, initiate dialogue&through talks it can be resolved. But every inch of Indian soil is precious for we Indians," said Binoy Viswam, Communist Party of India leader.
5. "Govt should make a statement on this. It has been going on. China has encroached upon our land. From Ladakh & Uttarakhand, they've reached Arunachal. We've the right to know Govt's preparation to tackle China's conspiracy," Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said.