Sun Aug 31 07:39:45 UTC 2025: ## Modi-Xi Meeting Sparks Controversy: Congress Accuses Government of “Spinelessness” Towards China
**Tianjin, China – August 31, 2025** – Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Tianjin today, on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. While Mr. Modi emphasized the importance of mutual trust and cooperation between the two nations, the meeting has drawn sharp criticism from the Indian National Congress.
The Congress party is accusing the Modi government of turning a blind eye to Chinese aggression and bullying, and of legitimizing territorial claims through reconciliation efforts.
“Is the ‘new normal’ to be defined by Chinese aggression and bullying and our Government’s spinelessness?” questioned Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh in a statement released on X.
Ramesh highlighted the Galwan Valley incident in June 2020, where 20 Indian soldiers lost their lives, and accused Prime Minister Modi of initially giving China a “clean chit” regarding the aggression. He further stated that despite the Army Chief’s demand for a full restoration of the status quo on the border in Ladakh, the government has pushed for reconciliation, effectively legitimizing China’s territorial gains.
The Congress also raised concerns about China’s growing alliance with Pakistan, referencing the Deputy Chief of Army Staff’s comments on their “jugalbandi” during Operation Sindoor. They allege the government has quietly accepted this alliance as a fait accompli and is now “rewarding China with state visits.”
Another point of contention is the proposed Chinese hydel project on the Yarlung Tsangpo River, which the Congress claims will have severe implications for Northeast India. The party criticizes the Modi government for remaining silent on the issue.
Furthermore, the Congress accuses China of “dumping” imports into India, devastating Indian Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and claims the government has allowed Chinese importers free rein.
In his opening remarks during the meeting with President Xi, Prime Minister Modi stated that the welfare of 2.8 billion people is linked to cooperation between India and China. The talks come amidst ongoing global economic uncertainty stemming from trade disputes.
The controversy highlights the delicate balance between fostering diplomatic ties and addressing national security concerns in India’s relationship with China. The Congress’s accusations underscore the pressure on the Modi government to navigate this complex geopolitical landscape with firmness and transparency.
First Piper 