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China remains a threat, India must strengthen defenses, Tharoor says, Swamy reacts

China remains a threat, India must strengthen defenses, Tharoor says, Swamy reacts

Bavana Guntha
January 15, 2026

India continues to face a direct military threat from China despite ongoing diplomatic engagements and multilateral platforms such as BRICS and the QUAD , Congress MP Shashi Tharoor warned on Tuesday.

Speaking on the country’s foreign policy and security posture, Tharoor said that while economic engagement with China is important, India must simultaneously strengthen its military deterrence. “India cannot afford to be complacent. A balanced approach is essential, engage economically where possible, but ensure that our defenses are robust enough to counter any potential aggression,” he stated.

Tharoor’s remarks come against the backdrop of continued tensions along the India-China border, particularly in the Ladakh sector, where both nations have previously faced standoffs and skirmishes. Analysts say that despite talks and agreements to maintain peace, China’s military assertiveness and growing strategic ambitions in the region pose a persistent challenge for India’s security planners.

Adding to the debate, senior BJP leader Subramanian Swamy criticized India’s current diplomatic approach toward China. Writing on social media, Swamy accused some Indian leaders of projecting weakness during official engagements. He specifically pointed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to China and the role of India’s ambassador in Beijing, saying, “China’s contempt for India’s present leadership must be addressed. When our leaders appear to cater to China’s interests, it encourages that disrespect.”

Security experts say that both Tharoor and Swamy ’s comments underline the delicate balancing act India must perform, maintaining economic and diplomatic ties with China while ensuring that its military capabilities remain credible and deterrent.

As India navigates a complex regional landscape, the challenge for policymakers remains clear: diplomatic engagement, economic cooperation, and military readiness must go hand in hand to safeguard national interests.