Congress leader Pawan Khera on tuesday criticized the BJP’s relationship with China, taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Khera alleged that leaders who once promised to show “red eyes” to China have now “rolled out a red carpet.” His remarks followed BJP Foreign Affairs in-charge Vijay Chauthaiwale sharing details of a meeting with a Chinese Communist Party (CCP) delegation, led by Sun Haiyan.

At a press conference in Delhi, Khera claimed the BJP maintained links with the CCP even when out of power, with party leaders and RSS members visiting China for meetings and training. “The BJP has taught even a chameleon how to change colours,” he said. Khera clarified that Congress does not oppose political dialogue with foreign parties but criticized the BJP for “duplicity and hypocrisy.” He accused the government of discouraging Chinese products while awarding contracts to Chinese companies, and questioned why Mandarin was taught in Gujarat.

Highlighting alleged contradictions in Modi’s approach to China, Khera claimed the PM was “afraid of China” and accused him of bowing to the U.S. for minor praise. He also raised concerns about whether critical issues, including the Shaksgam region and developments during Operation Sindoor, were addressed in the meetings, citing reports of China supplying weapons to Pakistan.

Congress leader Supriya Shrinate criticized the BJP for meeting CCP leaders, contrasting it with China’s activities in Arunachal Pradesh and Galwan. She accused the BJP of treason and secret agreements with China. The BJP had previously criticized Congress for signing a 2008 MoU with the CCP, which they claimed led to territorial concessions. BJP President JP Nadda had also accused Rahul Gandhi of undermining national interests during the Doklam standoff.