Rahul Gandhi Slams Jaishankar’s SCO Talk in Beijing
Congress MP Rahul Gandhi has criticised External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar for “briefing” Chinese President Xi Jinping during the SCO foreign ministers’ meeting in Beijing. Gandhi accused the move of undermining India’s foreign policy and labelled it a “full‑blown circus.”
Context of the SCO Engagement
This high‑level interaction marks Jaishankar’s first visit to China in six years and the first diplomatic exchange since the 2020 Galwan standoff. During the meeting, Jaishankar updated Xi on recent developments between India and China and suggested a more strategic, long‑term approach to bilateral relations.
Opposition’s Strong Reaction
Rahul Gandhi questioned the timing of the briefing, pointing to China’s recent backing of Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, India’s May missile strike campaign. He said it was ironic to share updates with China while the nation supported Pakistan’s intelligence efforts. Rahul tweeted that the session was “damaging India’s foreign policy,” going so far as to suggest even China’s foreign minister might brief Prime Minister Modi instead.
Forward Diplomatic Outlook
India views Jaishankar’s meeting as a calculated move to reduce regional tensions and resume direct communication channels with Beijing. Ministries and diplomats anticipate strategic talk to continue in multilateral settings.
However, Rahul Gandhi’s criticism highlights domestic political sensitivities, especially around Pakistan, China, and India’s strategic autonomy. As SCO discussions wind down, diplomatic messaging and how India engages China will remain under close political scrutiny.
