Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Friday (August 14, 2026) sought answers from the Narendra Modi government over reports of an alleged expansion of Chinese presence in sensitive areas of Arunachal Pradesh, questioning whether the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) had expanded its presence near Taksing and whether India had lost regular access to a designated Patrolling Point.

“After Galwan, now Arunachal Pradesh?” Mr. Kharge said in a post on X, describing reports that China was attempting to “push further” into areas of Arunachal Pradesh as disturbing and demanding immediate answers from the government.

Mr. Kharge asked whether the PLA had expanded its presence near Taksing and whether India had lost regular access to Shera-5, a designated Patrolling Point. He also questioned why Indian patrolling was reportedly limited during winter in the sensitive sector while the PLA maintained a year-round presence.

He sought an explanation for reports that traditional grazing and hunting grounds were becoming inaccessible to local communities.

The Congress president also questioned the Government over the status of the India-China disengagement in eastern Ladakh, asking whether the pre-May 2020 status quo ante had been fully restored.

He accused the BJP government of hiding facts about the situation on the ground and asked whether India retained full access to all areas and Patrolling Points that its forces had accessed before May 2020.

“After 20 of our brave soldiers made the supreme sacrifice in Galwan in 2020, none less than PM Modi gave China a ‘CLEAN CHIT’, emboldening their transgressions!”the Congress chief said.

He said the government’s record on the issue “inspires no confidence” and demanded that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister and Home Minister answer the questions raised over the reported developments.

Mr. Kharge, however, said the Congress had “complete faith” in the courage and capability of the Indian Armed Forces. “India stands firmly behind our soldiers and united against any Chinese aggression,” he said.

Published - August 14, 2026 03:20 pm IST