Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi on Thursday asserted that every Indian wishes for peaceful relations with China, but not at the cost of India's interests and sovereignty. Speaking in the Lok Sabha during a discussion on the situation in the border areas, the AIMIM chief emphasized that while dialogue and diplomacy are important, India must remain vigilant and protect its territorial integrity.
Owaisi's Statement in Parliament
Owaisi said, "Every Indian wants peaceful ties with China. But not at the cost of India's interests. We want peace, but not by compromising our sovereignty." He added that the government must ensure that the armed forces are well-equipped and prepared to face any challenge. The MP also called for a transparent and robust policy to address border disputes.
Context of India-China Border Tensions
The remarks come amid ongoing tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh, where Indian and Chinese troops have been in a standoff since May 2020. Multiple rounds of military and diplomatic talks have been held to de-escalate the situation, but full disengagement has not been achieved. Owaisi's comments reflect a broader sentiment across the political spectrum that while peace is desirable, it must not come at the expense of national security.
Government's Response
Responding to the debate, Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt reiterated the government's commitment to protecting India's borders. He stated that the armed forces are fully prepared and that the government is engaged in continuous dialogue with China to resolve the issues peacefully. Bhatt also highlighted the steps taken to strengthen infrastructure along the LAC.
Cross-Party Support for Strong Stance
Several other MPs from different parties echoed Owaisi's views, emphasizing the need for a firm stance on national security. Congress MP Manish Tewari said, "India cannot afford to be weak on its borders. Peace is important, but not at the cost of an inch of our land." The discussion underscored a rare bipartisan consensus on the issue.
Impact on India-China Relations
Owaisi's statement comes at a critical juncture in India-China relations, which have been strained since the Galwan Valley clash in June 2020 that resulted in casualties on both sides. While both nations have engaged in dialogue, trust remains low. Analysts suggest that such parliamentary assertions reinforce India's resolve to protect its interests, which could influence future negotiations.
