Overview On January 13, 2026 , the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) addressed concerns regarding its formal meeting with a delegation from China's Communist Party (CPC) . The BJP defended the meeting by stating that relations between New Delhi and Beijing have "improved", contrasting their open engagement with what they alleged was a "secret" memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed by the Indian National Congress with the CPC in the past. This event underscores the ongoing political dynamics and scrutiny surrounding India-China relations. Background The controversy arose after the Congress party questioned the BJP's interactions with the Chinese delegation, accusing the ruling party of hypocrisy and raising concerns about whether issues of Chinese transgressions were addressed during the meeting. The Congress party has demanded full accountability and transparency from the government regarding its China policy. Key Developments BJP's Response Tuhin Sinha , the BJP national spokesperson, responded to the Congress's accusations by emphasizing the formality and openness of the meeting. He stated that such formal meetings occur when relations improve and that the BJP does not engage in secret agreements that cannot be explained. This was a clear reference to the alleged secret MoU signed between the Congress and the CPC. Formal Meeting: The BJP characterized the interaction as a formal meeting, indicating improved bilateral relations. Transparency: The BJP contrasted its open approach with the Congress's alleged secret MoU. Improved Relations: The BJP cited the resumption of flights and ongoing trade talks as evidence of improved relations. Congress's Accusations Pawan Khera , head of the Congress media and publicity department, demanded transparency and accountability from the government on its China policy. The Congress has repeatedly questioned the BJP's approach to China, particularly regarding border disputes and alleged Chinese incursions. Historical Context The BJP has consistently attacked the Congress over an alleged “secret” MoU signed in 2008 between Rahul Gandhi and the Communist Party of China in Beijing, supposedly in the presence of Sonia Gandhi and Chinese President Xi Jinping . The BJP has demanded that the Congress make the details of this MoU public. Recent Interactions On January 12, 2026 , a CPC delegation, led by Sun Haiyan , Vice-Minister of the International Department, visited the BJP headquarters in New Delhi. During the meeting, a BJP delegation headed by party general secretary Arun Singh discussed ways to advance inter-party communications. The Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong , also participated. RSS Engagement On January 13, 2026 , the CPC delegation also met with Dattatreya Hosabale , the general secretary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) , in New Delhi. Sources indicated that the meeting was a courtesy call requested by the Chinese side. UPSC Relevance This news article is relevant to the UPSC syllabus under GS Paper 2 (International Relations) and GS Paper 3 (Security) . It highlights the complexities of India-China relations, the role of political parties in shaping foreign policy, and the importance of transparency and accountability in international dealings. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for aspirants preparing for the Civil Services Examination. Key Takeaways for UPSC India-China Relations: The article illustrates the delicate balance between engagement and vigilance in India's approach to China. Political Dynamics: It showcases how domestic political considerations influence foreign policy decisions. Transparency and Accountability: The controversy underscores the importance of transparency in international agreements and interactions.