Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has accused China of tightening its grip on critical sectors in India since the deadly Galwan clash in 2020. Speaking in New Delhi, Kharge highlighted India's growing dependence on Chinese imports and a trade deficit that reached $112.1 billion in 2025-26.
Kharge flags Chinese imports and trade deficit
Kharge pointed out that despite the border tensions, India's imports from China have surged, leading to a record trade deficit. He said, "China has tightened its grip on critical sectors since the Galwan clash, and our trade deficit with them has ballooned to $112.1 billion in 2025-26." The Congress leader emphasized the need for self-reliance and reducing dependence on Chinese goods.
Impact on national security
The Congress president also raised concerns about national security, stating that the government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has failed to protect strategic sectors. "Our dependence on Chinese imports in sectors like electronics, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy is a threat to national security," he added.
Kharge's remarks come amid ongoing tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh. The Galwan clash in June 2020 resulted in casualties on both sides and severely strained bilateral relations.
Government response and criticism
The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has defended its policies, citing initiatives like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme to boost domestic manufacturing. However, critics argue that the government's efforts have been insufficient to reduce import dependence.
According to data from the Ministry of Commerce, India's trade deficit with China has widened from $53.6 billion in 2020-21 to $112.1 billion in 2025-26, a 109% increase. The sectors most affected include electronics, machinery, and chemicals.
Need for strategic autonomy
Kharge called for a comprehensive strategy to achieve strategic autonomy, including diversifying supply chains and promoting indigenous production. "We cannot allow China to hold our economy hostage. The government must take immediate steps to reduce our dependence on Chinese imports," he said.
The Congress president also criticized the Modi government for not taking a strong stance against Chinese aggression. "Our soldiers are sacrificing their lives on the border, but the government is allowing China to dominate our economy," he added.
