A fresh controversy has erupted after Congress leader Sam Pitroda suggested that India should not view China as an enemy, urging for collaboration instead of confrontation. His remarks, made during an interview, have triggered a strong backlash from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which accused Congress of having a soft stance on China.
What Did Pitroda Say?
In an exclusive interview, Pitroda—who is a close aide of Rahul Gandhi—questioned India’s long-standing perception of China as a threat.
“Our attitude is that of confrontation from day one, and that attitude creates enemies,” he said.
He further argued that the fear of China is often exaggerated and that countries should focus on cooperation and mutual respect rather than hostility.
“I don’t know what the threat from China is. This issue is often blown out of proportion because the US has the habit of defining an enemy,” Pitroda added.
According to him, the world is changing, and India must recognize China’s growth and respect it.
“China is around, China is growing… We need to recognize that and respect that. Some countries will grow faster, others slower. We must learn to work together,” he said.
His comments came in response to a question about whether Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former US President Donald Trump were capable of countering threats from China.
BJP’s Strong Reaction: “Congress Sides With China”
The BJP wasted no time in attacking Pitroda and Congress, calling his statement a betrayal of India’s interests.
BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari launched a scathing attack, stating:
“Rahul Gandhi’s right-hand man Sam Pitroda says ‘China isn’t our enemy’! This man sings endless praises of China while Congress signed an MoU with the Chinese Communist Party in 2008! Congress has always put China’s interests above India’s!”
Bhandari also referenced past allegations against Congress regarding its ties with Chinese officials, including claims that Rahul Gandhi met Chinese diplomats during the Doklam standoff.
Why This Matters?
Pitroda’s remarks have reignited the debate over India’s foreign policy approach towards China. The BJP sees China as a geopolitical threat, especially after border clashes in Galwan Valley and Arunachal Pradesh. Meanwhile, Congress leaders like Pitroda argue for diplomatic engagement and avoiding unnecessary hostility.
With elections approaching, the China issue is likely to become a major political flashpoint.
What Happens Next?
As the controversy unfolds, Congress has not officially responded to BJP’s accusations. Pitroda, who was recently reappointed as Chairman of the Indian Overseas Congress, is now at the center of a heated debate over India’s stance on China.
