Wed Dec 04 16:27:32 UTC 2024: ## Opposition Walks Out of Rajya Sabha Over China-India Border Dispute

**New Delhi, December 4, 2024** – The Indian Parliament’s Rajya Sabha witnessed a walkout by opposition members today following External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s statement on India-China border relations. The opposition, led by Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge, demanded clarifications on the statement, particularly concerning discrepancies between the government’s current position and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2020 statement that no one had intruded into Indian territory.

Jaishankar, in a statement made earlier in the Lok Sabha, emphasized that peace and tranquility in border areas were prerequisites for improved India-China relations. He highlighted that recent tensions have negatively impacted overall bilateral ties, necessitating a change in normal exchanges and interactions. He reiterated the government’s stance that restoring peace and tranquility in the border regions is essential for the further development of the relationship.

The Rajya Sabha Chairman, Jagdeep Dhankhar, disallowed the opposition’s request for clarifications, citing parliamentary rules. This prompted a walkout by members of the Congress, RJD, DMK, and Left parties. The Trinamool Congress, however, did not participate in the walkout.

Congress MP Randeep Surjewala criticized the government’s response, questioning the basis of agreements with China in light of the Prime Minister’s 2020 statement. He expressed concern about the government’s failure to address the opposition’s questions regarding India’s sovereignty and integrity. Dhankhar defended his decision, emphasizing the need for adherence to parliamentary procedures and decorum. The walkout underscores the ongoing tension and disagreement within the Indian Parliament regarding the handling of the India-China border situation.

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