Unpacking the Doklam Debate: Jaishankar’s Sharp Criticism of Congress

In a recent fiery Lok Sabha debate, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar launched a scathing critique of the Congress party, particularly targeting Rahul Gandhi, over its Doklam Standoff Decisions during the 2017 India-China military confrontation. The minister’s remarks shed light on what he described as questionable choices made by the opposition at a critical juncture for national security.

Here’s a breakdown of the key points from Jaishankar’s address, focusing on the broader implications of Doklam Standoff Decisions:

• A Question of Priorities during the Doklam Standoff Decisions:
  • Jaishankar directly confronted allegations from Congress member Gaurav Gogoi regarding the government’s stance on China.
  • He clarified his own official visit to China, stating its purpose was de-escalation, addressing trade restrictions, and counter-terrorism, not for participation in the Olympics or any clandestine agreements.
  • The minister pointed out the hypocrisy, noting that while some were focused on the Olympics, China was actively issuing stapled visas to citizens from Arunachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir.
• The Unprecedented Doklam Standoff Decisions of the Opposition:
  • A central point of Jaishankar’s criticism revolved around the then-Leader of Opposition, Rahul Gandhi.
  • During the height of the Doklam crisis in 2017, when Indian armed forces were directly confronting Chinese troops, Rahul Gandhi reportedly opted to seek a briefing from the Chinese Ambassador.
  • Jaishankar expressed dismay that this decision was made instead of consulting the Indian government or the Ministry of External Affairs, raising serious questions about the nature of these Doklam Standoff Decisions and their alignment with national interest.
• Past Economic and Technological Doklam Standoff Decisions:
  • The External Affairs Minister also delved into Congress’s historical economic and technological engagements with China, linking them to a pattern of Doklam Standoff Decisions.
  • He recalled that in 2006, the Congress party had agreed to a regional trading arrangement with China, which was to be finalized during President Hu Jintao’s visit, though it ultimately did not materialize.
  • Furthermore, Jaishankar highlighted that the very individuals now warning about China were responsible for allowing 3G and 4G technology from Chinese sources into India. In contrast, he asserted, the current government ensured the rollout of “Made in India 5G” technology.
• Transforming Border Infrastructure Post-Doklam Standoff Decisions:
  • Jaishankar underscored the significant strides made by the current government in bolstering border infrastructure.
  • He stated that the budget allocated for border infrastructure has seen a four-fold increase.
  • Substantial progress has been achieved in vital projects like tunnelling, road construction, and bridge building along the borders.
  • This, he argued, represents a stark reversal of the “neglect” that characterized border infrastructure development over the preceding 60 years, showcasing a decisive shift in approach following key Doklam Standoff Decisions.
• Strengthening Regional Ties and National Security:
  • The minister concluded by touching upon improved diplomatic relations with neighboring countries such as Maldives and Sri Lanka.
  • He implicitly challenged the credibility of those who claim to be guardians of national security, questioning their own track record in this crucial domain.

This parliamentary exchange underscores the ongoing debate surrounding India’s foreign policy and national security posture, with the Doklam Standoff Decisions serving as a potent flashpoint for political discourse.