Modi’s SCO Summit Visit Triggers Political Criticism

Congress Raises Concerns on National Security

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, China, alongside Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, has sparked sharp political criticism back home. The Congress party questioned the strategic value of his engagements and alleged neglect of crucial national security concerns.

Silence on Pakistan-Sponsored Terrorism

Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed expressed dismay over the SCO’s failure to explicitly condemn Pakistan-backed terrorism. She argued that equating India and Pakistan under the same framework amounted to a “diplomatic downgrade” for India.

Shifting Alliances of Russia, China, and the U.S.

Mohamed highlighted growing ties between Pakistan and India’s strategic partners. Russia has begun investing in Pakistan’s steel industry, while China continues to fund and arm Islamabad. She also pointed to U.S. President’s recent lunch with Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Asim Munir, calling it a sign of Pakistan’s growing global recognition.

Uneven Trade Relations and Tariff Disparities

Raising economic concerns, Mohamed argued that U.S. tariffs on Pakistan are far more lenient compared to those on India. At the same time, India continues to face unresolved border issues with China, worsening the diplomatic imbalance.

Jairam Ramesh Questions Modi’s Approach to China

Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh also criticised Modi for allegedly calling China an ally in the fight against terrorism during his meeting with Xi Jinping. He said Modi failed to raise the issue of China-Pakistan coordination during Operation Sindoor, which had already been flagged by Indian military officials.

Strategic Dilemma for India

While Modi described the SCO Summit as “productive,” critics argue that India’s deepening engagement with authoritarian powers like China and Russia raises strategic concerns. The Congress insists that India’s position in the evolving global order could be undermined by what it calls “misplaced diplomatic priorities.”