Overview
- Reuters reported that New Delhi is considering removing special registration and security clearance requirements for companies from bordering countries, including China, before they can bid on public tenders.
- Mallikarjun Kharge said the move would roll out a red carpet for Chinese firms and argued the government's foreign policy 'swings like a wild pendulum.'
- Kharge also criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not responding publicly to President Donald Trump’s repeated comments on India’s purchases of Russian oil.
- Jairam Ramesh claimed the proposed change reflects broader NITI Aayog recommendations to ease restrictions on Chinese trade and investment, and he urged an explanation in the upcoming Budget Session.
- The reported policy shift remains under consideration and would require the prime minister’s approval, and the government has not issued a formal response to the criticism.