Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has stated that border areas, which were previously neglected, are now a top priority for the Narendra Modi government. This statement comes in response to claims of fresh Chinese incursions in Arunachal Pradesh.
Mr. Rijiju invoked former Defence Minister A.K. Antony’s 2013 statement in Parliament, where he acknowledged India’s historical policy of keeping border areas underdeveloped. Mr. Antony had stated that this approach was discarded by successive governments, but Mr. Rijiju used the statement to highlight the Modi government’s commitment to border development.
The Minister’s remarks come amid renewed concerns over Chinese military activity in the Upper Subansiri region of Arunachal Pradesh. Mr. Rijiju has visited areas in Arunachal Pradesh to speed up infrastructure works, emphasizing the government’s commitment to border development.
Mr. Rijiju also targeted the Congress over its record on border infrastructure, stating that the party had a policy of not developing border areas. He cited Mr. Antony’s 2013 statement, where he acknowledged that China had built better infrastructure along the border due to India’s historical policy.
The Ministry of External Affairs has emphasized the importance of peace and tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), stating that it is critical to the overall relationship with China. The MEA has also stated that the state of border affairs will reflect on the state of bilateral ties.
Mr. Rijiju has rejected claims that Chinese troops had penetrated as far as 60 km inside Arunachal Pradesh, but acknowledged concerns among local residents. He has assured that the government will address the concerns of local people and protect Indian territory.
