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3 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu
3 min
Polity & GovernanceInternational RelationsNEWS

BJP Accuses Rahul Gandhi of Lowering Army Morale on Doklam

BJP alleges Rahul Gandhi is defaming the nation and insulting soldiers.

BJP Accuses Rahul Gandhi of Lowering Army Morale on Doklam

Photo by Aloha Basis

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused Rahul Gandhi of misleading the nation and hurting the morale of the Indian Army with his statements on the Doklam issue. BJP MP Anil Baluni stated that Gandhi is tarnishing the image of the country and insulting soldiers by making false accusations.

Baluni referenced General Manoj Naravane's statements that Indian soldiers gave a befitting reply to China in Doklam and forced them to retreat. The BJP questions how Gandhi accessed the unpublished book and accuses him of insulting the Chair and the Army.

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper II: International Relations, India and its neighborhood

2.

GS Paper III: Security challenges and their management in border areas

3.

Potential for questions on border disputes, infrastructure development, and diplomatic strategies

Visual Insights

Doklam Region

Map showing the location of Doklam and its proximity to the Siliguri Corridor.

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📍Doklam📍Siliguri Corridor📍Bhutan📍China📍India
More Information

Background

The Doklam standoff in 2017 brought the India-China border dispute into sharp focus. Understanding the historical context of this dispute requires examining the McMahon Line, which defined the eastern sector of the border. This line, drawn in 1914 during the Simla Convention, has never been fully accepted by China, leading to territorial claims and conflicts. The western sector of the India-China border is also contested, particularly the Aksai Chin region. This area, strategically important for China as it connects Tibet and Xinjiang, was the site of the 1962 Sino-Indian War. The war resulted in China gaining control over Aksai Chin, further complicating the border issue. The principle of Panchsheel, initially intended to guide India-China relations, failed to prevent the escalation of tensions. India's approach to border management involves both diplomatic and military strategies. The establishment of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has been crucial in developing infrastructure along the border areas. This infrastructure development aims to improve connectivity and facilitate troop movement, enhancing India's defense capabilities. Regular dialogues and border personnel meetings are also conducted to maintain peace and stability.

Latest Developments

Recent developments indicate a continued focus on infrastructure development along the India-China border. The government has allocated significant funds for projects aimed at improving road connectivity and establishing new border posts. This includes the construction of tunnels and bridges to ensure all-weather access to strategic locations. The Ministry of Defence plays a crucial role in overseeing these projects. Diplomatic efforts to resolve the border dispute have continued, but progress has been slow. Several rounds of talks between military commanders and diplomats have taken place, but a mutually acceptable solution remains elusive. The differing interpretations of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) continue to be a major obstacle. The situation is further complicated by China's increasing assertiveness in the region. Looking ahead, the focus is likely to remain on maintaining a strong military presence along the border while pursuing diplomatic solutions. The use of technology, such as drones and satellite imagery, is also expected to play an increasing role in border surveillance. Strengthening partnerships with other countries in the region is also seen as a key element of India's strategy. The role of Ministry of External Affairs is crucial in this regard.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Doklam issue and why is it important for UPSC prelims?

The Doklam issue refers to the 2017 standoff between India and China in the Doklam plateau. Understanding the Doklam standoff is important for UPSC prelims as it highlights the ongoing border disputes between India and China, their strategic implications, and India's foreign policy challenges in the region. The McMahon Line, though related, is background context and not directly part of the Doklam issue itself.

2. How might the Doklam issue and accusations of lowering army morale be relevant to the UPSC Mains exam, particularly in the context of international relations and security?

The Doklam issue and the related accusations can be relevant to the UPSC Mains exam in several ways. It highlights the complexities of India-China relations, the importance of border management, and the impact of political statements on national security and army morale. Mains questions could explore the strategic implications of the Doklam standoff, the role of political leadership in maintaining army morale, and the challenges of managing a disputed border with a powerful neighbor.

3. What are the key facts to remember regarding the Doklam issue for the UPSC Prelims exam?

For UPSC Prelims, remember these key facts about the Doklam issue: It was a standoff in 2017 between India and China. The location was the Doklam plateau. The issue highlights the border disputes between India and China. The McMahon Line is related as historical context for border issues.

4. Why is the BJP accusing Rahul Gandhi of lowering army morale on the Doklam issue?

The BJP is accusing Rahul Gandhi because he allegedly made statements that contradict the government's position and General Naravane's statements, potentially tarnishing the country's image and demoralizing soldiers. The BJP alleges Gandhi is making false accusations and insulting the army.

5. In a UPSC interview, how would you respond to a question about the impact of political statements on army morale, using the Rahul Gandhi/Doklam situation as a case study?

In a UPSC interview, I would acknowledge the sensitivity of the issue. I would state that while constructive criticism is essential in a democracy, statements that undermine the achievements and sacrifices of the armed forces can negatively impact morale. I would emphasize the need for responsible and informed commentary, especially on matters of national security. I would also mention the importance of verifying information before making public statements.

6. What is 'army morale' and why is it important, especially in the context of border disputes like Doklam?

Army morale refers to the confidence, enthusiasm, and discipline within a military force. It's crucial because it directly impacts their effectiveness, willingness to fight, and ability to withstand pressure in conflict situations. High morale is especially important during border disputes like Doklam, as it enables soldiers to maintain a strong defense and deter potential aggression.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Doklam standoff: 1. The Doklam plateau is located at the tri-junction of India, China, and Bhutan. 2. The primary issue in the Doklam standoff was China's construction of a road in the disputed territory. 3. India intervened in Doklam citing its treaty obligations with Bhutan. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: D

All three statements are correct. The Doklam plateau is indeed located at the tri-junction of India, China, and Bhutan. The primary issue was China's road construction in the disputed territory. India intervened citing its treaty obligations with Bhutan, as Bhutan's security is closely linked to India's. Therefore, all statements are accurate and reflect the key aspects of the Doklam standoff.

2. Which of the following statements accurately describes the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China?

  • A.It is a formally demarcated and mutually agreed upon international border.
  • B.It is a ceasefire line established after the 1962 Sino-Indian War.
  • C.It is the effective border between India and China, but its alignment is not mutually agreed upon.
  • D.It is a line proposed by India but rejected by China.
Show Answer

Answer: C

The Line of Actual Control (LAC) is the effective border between India and China, but its alignment is not mutually agreed upon. This lack of a common understanding of the LAC's alignment has been a major source of border disputes and tensions between the two countries. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because the LAC is not formally demarcated, not a ceasefire line, and not just a proposal by India.

3. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) primarily focuses on which of the following activities?

  • A.Managing diplomatic relations with neighboring countries.
  • B.Developing and maintaining road infrastructure in border areas.
  • C.Conducting military operations along the border.
  • D.Promoting cultural exchange programs with neighboring countries.
Show Answer

Answer: B

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is primarily responsible for developing and maintaining road infrastructure in border areas. This includes constructing roads, bridges, and tunnels to improve connectivity and facilitate troop movement. Options A, C, and D are incorrect as they fall under the purview of other government agencies and are not the primary focus of the BRO.

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