Congress Urges Parliamentary Discussion on China Border Dispute and Trade Deficit

Congress MP Manish Tewari urged Lok Sabha to discuss the India-China border dispute and trade deficit, highlighting ongoing clashes since 2019. Adjournment motions were also filed by MPs Amar Singh and Hibi Eden demanding accountability for the deaths of three IAS aspirants due to negligence at a Delhi coaching centre.

On Monday, Congress MP Manish Tewari submitted an adjournment notice in the Lok Sabha to prompt a discussion on India's border situation and the significant trade deficit with China. In a letter to the Secretary-General of the Lok Sabha, Tewari underscored ongoing border clashes since 2019 and highlighted China's rejection of the Seva tunnel inauguration, asserting its claim over parts of Arunachal Pradesh.

Tewari's letter read, "That this House do suspend Zero Hour and relevant rules relating to Question Hour and other businesses of the day to have a discussion on the border situation and the huge trade deficit with China." He detailed how Chinese troops have been blocking access to patrolling points in Eastern Ladakh. He also emphasized the need for the government to clarify its efforts in resolving the border dispute and safeguarding India's integrity against Chinese aggressions.

Furthermore, Tewari pointed out that in the financial year 2023-24, India's trade deficit with China surpassed USD 85 billion, with exports amounting to USD 16.65 billion against imports of USD 101.75 billion. He urged the government to brief the House on this critical issue.

Separately, Congress MPs Amar Singh and Hibi Eden filed notices for adjournment motions in Lok Sabha, demanding accountability for the deaths of three IAS aspirants in a Delhi coaching centre. Singh sought to move a motion to discuss the urgent matter of fatalities caused by waterlogging in a building in Old Rajinder Nagar, while Eden criticized the gross negligence and mismanagement by authorities leading to the tragedy.

Rahul Gandhi, leader of the opposition in Lok Sabha, also condemned the lack of planning responsible for the incident. The budget session of Parliament, which started on July 22, is scheduled to conclude on August 12.

(With inputs from agencies.)