Farmers Movement Archive

Rajnath Singh junks claims of China building infra on Indian soil

NEW DELHI: Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Friday dismissed Congress allegations that China had usurped Indian land, saying India would not compromise on its sovereignty and territorial integrity under any circumstances. The minister also said that the government had left no stone unturned to heed to the agitating farmers’ concerns over the farm laws and they should now take part in the Supreme Court-mandated committee to resolve the issues. “I want to make it clear that India will do anything to safeguard its sovereignty and integrity. We’re proud of the action taken by our military so far. Our jawans made sure that they hold their heads high,” he said in an interview to TimesNow channel. Asked about reports that China had built dwellings on Indian soil in Arunachal Pradesh, Singh said the MEA had specified about the LAC and that China is building border infrastructure. “The construction has been going on ... Now, India has also started constructing infra near the LAC at a fast pace considering the requirements of the locals as well as our forces. We’re developing our infrastructure at a very fast rate. We’re building roads and bridges,” he said. He said China has objected to Indian projects many times, questioning the reason behind building infrastructure there. “We will not compromise when it comes to protecting India’s sovereignty and national integrity, and we’ve haven’t compromised on that till date,” he said. Asked about the stalemate over talks with farm unions, Singh said, “The government has always said that there should be clause-by-clause discussions. Wherever the need arises, we will make the amendments ...But if the farmers want more thorough discussions, the agriculture minister has given them a proposal that the government is ready to put the laws on hold for 18 months.” Singh said the government will have discussions and see what amendments are needed.

The Times of India

2021-01-23

India