Congress Leader's Remark on Chinese Invasion Sparks Controversy
Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar's statement about the Chinese invasion in October 1962 has ignited a political storm. During the launch of the book 'Nehru's First Recruits' at the Foreign Correspondents' Club in Delhi, Aiyar said, In October 1962, the Chinese allegedly invaded India.
BJP's Outrage
The BJP promptly denounced Aiyar's remark as a brazen attempt at revisionism. Amit Malviya, the BJP's IT cell chief, accused Congress of having a predilection for China and enumerated incidents such as Nehru relinquishing India's claim to the permanent seat at the UNSC in favor of the Chinese, Rahul Gandhi's secret MoU with the Chinese, the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation accepting funds from China, and UPA's opening up of the Indian market to Chinese goods. Malviya questioned Congress's motivations, considering China's illegal occupation of 38,000 sq km of Indian territory.
Aiyar's Apology and Clarification
Recognizing the gravity of his statement, Aiyar subsequently apologized for mistakenly using the term alleged. He acknowledged that he should have avoided such phrasing during an election season. However, he maintained that some books indicate that accepting Zhou Enlai's proposal in April 1960 could have averted the war.
Congress Distances Itself
Reacting to Aiyar's remark, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh tweeted that the veteran party leader had unreservedly apologized for his choice of words. While distancing the party from Aiyar's original phraseology, Ramesh emphasized that allowances must be made for his age. Nonetheless, Ramesh simultaneously criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's alleged clean chit to China for the May 2020 incursions, which resulted in the martyrdom of 20 Indian soldiers.
Aiyar's History of Controversial Statements
Aiyar's recent remark adds to his past history of controversial statements. Earlier this month, he sparked outrage by urging India to respect Pakistan's atomic arsenal and engage in dialogue. Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah condemned his stance, asserting that India has no fear of Pakistan's nuclear capabilities.
Conclusion
Aiyar's remark on the Chinese invasion has triggered a political maelstrom, with the BJP accusing Congress of a revisionist agenda while Congress attempts to distance itself from his statements. The controversy highlights the ongoing political tension between the two parties and the sensitivity surrounding India's relationship with China.
