Congress condemns Centre's silence on Chinese harassment of herders in Ladakh

The Congress party has launched a scathing attack on the central government following the emergence of a video depicting Chinese soldiers harassing Indian shepherds near the border. Expressing dismay at the lack of a robust response from the Indian authorities, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticised the Ministry of External Affairs' (MEA) mild reaction to the incident.

Video Evidence of Chinese Harassment

The video in question shows Chinese soldiers obstructing shepherds' access to the Chushul sector and subjecting them to harassment. Congress, through Jairam Ramesh, highlights the apparent aggression by Chinese forces at the border and questions the subdued response from the Indian government.

Brave Nomad of Ladakh Changpa (Northerner) Tribe Confront with PLA at Changthang, eastern Ladakh near Dumchele. Changpa fighting with its handmade rope wipe (Stone thrower) #India #China #Ladakh pic.twitter.com/uzHjlA61Z3

— sorig ladakhspa (ソナム・リグゼン・ラダクパ) (@sorigzinam) January 30, 2024

Congress Communication Chief's Critique

Jairam Ramesh, who heads the Congress communication department, conveyed his dissatisfaction with the MEA's response, stating that it was inadequate. He underscored the gravity of the situation, emphasising that such incidents demand a more assertive reaction from the government, particularly under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Border Management and Home Ministry's Role

Ramesh elucidated that border management falls under the purview of the Ministry of Home Affairs, making it crucial for Home Minister Amit Shah to address the issue. He queried whether the Home Ministry is taking adequate measures to safeguard Indian herders' rights within the country's territory. The responsibility to ensure the protection of citizens, including herders, lies with the Home Ministry, not solely with the Ministry of External Affairs or Defense.

Accountability for Herders' Safety

The Congress leader posed several questions to Amit Shah, seeking information on the frequency of harassment incidents faced by Indian herders since May 2020 in the areas claimed by India along the Line of Actual Control. He also inquired about any injuries sustained by herders during these conflicts and whether sufficient efforts have been made to shield them from Chinese harassment or if they are left to defend themselves without adequate support from organizations like ITBP.

Congress's critique points to the larger issue of border tensions and the government's response, urging a more proactive approach to protect the rights and safety of Indian citizens in border regions.