Rahul Gandhi Visits Ladakh, Claims China Took Indian Land, BJP Counters Accusations

New Delhi, August 20, 2023: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, during his inaugural visit to Ladakh after the revocation of Article 370, asserted that China has encroached upon Indian territory and local residents are unable to graze their livestock in the region.

Speaking at Pangong Lake on his father’s birth anniversary, Gandhi highlighted the concerns of the people, stating, “People here have been affected in a big way because their grazing lands have been taken away.”

However, the BJP strongly criticized his statements. Senior BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad condemned Gandhi’s remarks, emphasizing that his claims were incorrect and damaging to India’s image. Prasad questioned Gandhi’s tendency to question India’s security and intentions in the border areas.

In response to Gandhi’s assertions, Prasad stated, “We will debate with you on how much you understand the needs of India’s security… But please, in matters of security, do not weaken the morale of India.”

Gandhi’s visit to Ladakh comes amid the ongoing border standoff between India and China in eastern Ladakh. The two countries engaged in a deadly clash in the Galwan Valley in June 2020, resulting in the death of 20 Indian soldiers.

Gandhi also voiced the grievances of the people in Ladakh, mentioning their dissatisfaction with their current status and desire for representation. He pointed out rising unemployment and inflation concerns, advocating for a government that is elected rather than bureaucracy-led.

Additionally, the people of Ladakh have been advocating for statehood and protection under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, along with dedicated Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil districts.

Gandhi’s visit included a bike ride of over 100 kilometers to reach Pangong Lake. He plans to visit Nubra and Kargil before returning to Srinagar. In Kargil, he aims to meet party leaders and workers ahead of the elections for the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC)-Kargil, where the Congress and National Conference (NC) have formed an alliance against the BJP. The elections are scheduled for September 10.

Gandhi’s visit and assertions have sparked a debate about border issues, security concerns, and the political landscape in Ladakh.