Kiren Rijiju Warns Against Politicising National Security During Border Visit

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Monday visited the India-China border near Bumla Pass in Arunachal Pradesh and stressed that issues related to national security must remain above political debate. Standing near the Y-Junction, one of the sensitive points linked to the 2020 border standoff, the minister urged political leaders to approach security matters with seriousness and responsibility.

During his visit, Rijiju responded to recent remarks made by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi regarding the Galwan Valley clash. He stated that discussions concerning national security should be handled carefully and not be used for political positioning. Emphasizing the sensitivity of border issues, he said leaders should develop a clear understanding of ground realities before making public statements.

Context of the Galwan Valley Debate

The controversy follows comments made in Parliament referencing observations attributed to former Army Chief General M.M. Naravane concerning the 2020 Galwan Valley standoff. The remarks suggested shortcomings in political decision-making during the crisis. The government strongly objected to the reference, arguing that citing material from an unpublished work violates established norms and may affect national security interests. The presiding officer disallowed further mention of the book in the House.

Rijiju reiterated that matters linked to national defense require restraint and discretion. He stated that discussions about unpublished material relating to security operations should be avoided in the public domain. According to him, national security concerns must be treated with utmost seriousness and kept free from partisan considerations.

Importance of Border Awareness

Highlighting his familiarity with border regions as a representative from Arunachal Pradesh, Rijiju stressed the need for informed dialogue on frontier issues. He said leaders should understand the terrain, local realities, and strategic sensitivities before commenting on border matters.

The Bumla region remains strategically significant due to its proximity to key points along the Line of Actual Control. The 2020 standoff underscored the importance of infrastructure, preparedness, and diplomatic engagement in maintaining stability in border areas.

Remarks on Parliamentary Developments

Responding to Opposition efforts to initiate an impeachment motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, the minister said such attempts would not succeed. He argued that the numbers required for such a motion are not available and described the move as an attempt to create political controversy.

He also noted that despite disruptions and protests, legislative work in both Houses of Parliament has continued, with key business proceeding as scheduled.

National Security Above Politics

The minister’s visit to the border comes amid ongoing political debate over defense preparedness and border management. His remarks reinforce the government’s position that national security should remain a unifying issue and not become a subject of partisan conflict.

The visit also highlighted the strategic importance of India’s northeastern frontier and the need for continued vigilance, infrastructure development, and coordinated national focus on border security.