BJP criticizes Sam Pitroda’s comments on China, claiming they reflect Congress’ stance. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh clarifies the party does not share Pitroda’s views.
The BJP swiftly criticized Sam Pitroda for his reported remarks, asserting that his views reflect the stance of the Congress party. Amid the backlash surrounding Pitroda’s comments on China, Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh clarified the party’s position, stating that Congress does not share Pitroda’s perspective.
Taking to the microblogging platform X, Ramesh emphasized that Pitroda’s views on China do not represent the Indian National Congress (INC), especially in the context of China’s role in India’s foreign policy and security challenges. Ramesh wrote, “The views reportedly expressed by Sam Pitroda on China are most definitely NOT the views of the Indian National Congress. China remains our foremost foreign policy, external security, as well as economic challenge.”
Ramesh further explained that the Congress party has consistently raised concerns about the Modi government’s handling of China, including Prime Minister Modi’s public defense of China in June 2020. He also pointed out that Congress’ most recent statement on China was made on January 28, 2025. Ramesh expressed regret that Parliament had not been given the opportunity to discuss these critical issues and form a collective strategy.
Sam Pitroda, the head of Congress’ overseas unit, reportedly downplayed the threat from China, suggesting that India’s nuclear-armed neighbor is often portrayed as a bigger threat than it is. He argued that the issue has been exaggerated, largely influenced by the United States, and suggested that nations, including India, should shift from a confrontational approach to collaboration. In an interview with news agency IANS, Pitroda stated, “I don’t understand the threat from China. I think this issue is often blown out of proportion because the US tends to define an enemy. Our approach has been confrontational from the very beginning, and this attitude creates enemies.”
The BJP was quick to respond, accusing Pitroda of reflecting the Congress party’s mindset. In a press conference, BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi argued that Pitroda’s comments symbolized the Congress party’s perspective on China. He further claimed that these remarks were damaging to India’s prestige, suggesting that they implied India was the aggressor in its relationship with China.
