Modi Govt Putting India’s National & Territorial Security At Risk: Kharge

On Thursday, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the Modi government. He was concerned about reports that China is building 90 new villages along the Arunachal Pradesh border. Kharge accused the government of putting India’s national security, territorial integrity, and sovereignty at risk.

In a post on X, Kharge claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government focuses on “PR stunts” and “false advertisements” instead of prioritizing national security. He stated, “Narendra Modi ji, you are giving a ‘red salute’ to China instead of showing ‘red eyes.'” He emphasized that India’s national security and territorial integrity are very important, and the Modi government is jeopardizing them.

Kharge said that his allegations are serious and based on facts. He pointed out that China has started building 90 new villages on the Arunachal border. He also mentioned that China had previously built 628 villages along the same border, according to news reports.

The Congress leader criticized the Modi government for promoting the “Vibrant Villages Programme.” He claimed that the government has exaggerated this program in Parliament. However, he noted that 90% of the funds for the program have not been spent in the last two years. The program was launched in February 2023, with an allocated budget of Rs 4,800 crore. Yet, only Rs 509 crore has been utilized so far.

Kharge also highlighted the situation in Himachal Pradesh, where 75 villages need improvement. He stated that the central government has provided almost no funds for these villages.

In addition, Kharge raised alarms about China’s plans to build the “world’s largest dam” on the Brahmaputra river. He warned that this could be disastrous for India’s national security, the environment, and the northeastern states. The Brahmaputra river is crucial for India, as it provides 30% of the country’s freshwater resources. Therefore, its flow is vital for the nation.

According to Kharge, the Ministry of External Affairs informed the Rajya Sabha in 2022 that China adopted its 14th Five-Year Plan in March 2021. This plan includes hydropower projects in the lower reaches of the Brahmaputra river. Kharge argued that this means the Modi government was aware of the situation since 2021 but chose to remain silent.

He concluded by stating that it is clear the Modi government’s priority is not national security. Instead, he accused the government of focusing on PR stunts and self-promotion. Kharge’s comments come in light of news reports about China building new villages along the Arunachal Pradesh border.

The Congress president’s statements reflect growing concerns about China’s actions and the Indian government’s response. He urged the government to take national security seriously and to act in the best interests of the country. The situation at the border and the developments regarding the Brahmaputra river are critical issues that need immediate attention.

Kharge’s remarks highlight the need for a strong and proactive approach to protect India’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. As tensions rise, it is essential for the government to prioritize the safety and security of its citizens.