Political Tensions Rise Over China's Activities in Shaksgam Valley
The construction activities by China in Shaksgam Valley have ignited a political storm in India, with the Congress party accusing the BJP of sending mixed signals to China. Following a controversial meeting between BJP leaders and a Chinese Communist Party delegation, concerns over national security have been raised. Congress leader Supriya Srinate has criticized the BJP's engagement with China, questioning the implications for India's sovereignty. As tensions rise, the BJP defends its actions as part of inter-party dialogue, while the historical context of previous agreements adds to the complexity of the situation. This article delves into the strategic importance of the Shaksgam Valley and the ongoing political discourse surrounding it.
Jan 13, 2026, 12:13 IST
Political Controversy Erupts Over Shaksgam Valley
The ongoing construction activities allegedly being carried out by China in the Shaksgam Valley of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir have sparked a new political controversy in India. The Congress party has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of sending "mixed signals" to China and has criticized the government regarding national security issues. This controversy gained momentum following reports of a meeting between senior BJP leaders and a delegation from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in New Delhi.
Congress Criticizes BJP's Engagement with China
On Tuesday, Congress leader Supriya Srinate launched a strong attack on the BJP after the meeting between party leaders and the CCP delegation. Expressing concerns over national security, she pointed out that while political discussions continue in the capital, China is making territorial claims.
China's Claims and BJP's Meetings
“China has claimed the Shaksgam Valley in Jammu and Kashmir as its territory. Construction activities have been ongoing there under the guise of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). How has China managed to encroach this far after Ladakh?” Srinate questioned on social media. She further asked, “How is China showing such audacity? Meanwhile, BJP leaders are meeting with the Chinese Communist Party.”
Increased Tensions and Political Questions
Intensifying her criticism, Srinate raised questions about the BJP's discussions with the CCP amid rising border tensions. “This photo is from the BJP office. Meetings are taking place between BJP leaders and the Chinese Communist Party. During Operation Sindoor, China supported Pakistan. Our brave soldiers were martyred in Galwan. China is encroaching in Ladakh and settling villages in Arunachal Pradesh. And here, they are embracing each other,” she stated.
Media's Role and Accountability
She also accused parts of the media of remaining silent. “Why is no one asking the BJP about this meeting? What do we call this relationship? Why has the BJP betrayed the nation? What secret agreement exists between the BJP and China?” Srinate questioned.
BJP Confirms Meeting with CCP Delegation
In response, the BJP defended the meeting, describing it as part of inter-party dialogue. Vijay Chauthaiwale, in charge of the BJP's foreign affairs department, confirmed that a delegation from the CCP visited the party headquarters in the national capital. He stated on social media, "A delegation from the Chinese Communist Party, led by Vice Minister HE Sun Haiyan of the Central Committee's International Department, visited the BJP headquarters today." He added that discussions were held to advance party-level dialogue between the BJP and the CPC, with the Chinese Ambassador to India, HE Zhu Fenglian, also part of the delegation.
Reviving Old MOU Controversies
This controversy has rekindled memories of previous political clashes regarding India-China relations. In 2020, BJP President JP Nadda accused the Congress of compromising national interests by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Chinese Communist Party in 2008.
Strategic Importance of Shaksgam Valley
The Shaksgam Valley holds significant strategic importance for India:
This area is very close to the Siachen Glacier.
In 1963, Pakistan illegally ceded this valley to China, a move that India has never accepted.
Construction activities by China here could enhance its military surveillance over Indian borders.