In a pointed critique of the Congress Party, Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday accused the opposition of being involved in secretive deals that have hurt India’s interests. Goyal, speaking at a press event in Maharashtra, referred to what he described as an unresolved mystery surrounding Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and his alleged agreement with the Communist Party of China.

“I believe the Congress Party has been exposed multiple times. To this day, it remains unclear what kind of agreement Rahul Gandhi signed with the Communist Party of China,” Goyal said. The Minister further linked the growing trade deficit with China to the said deal, claiming, “Under that mysterious deal, India’s trade deficit with China grew 25 times in just ten years…”

Goyal’s statement comes amid ongoing concerns regarding India’s growing trade imbalance with China. Over the last decade, India’s imports from China have surged, while exports have remained relatively stagnant, contributing to a widening trade gap. The BJP has often accused the Congress of being soft on China, particularly in relation to trade policies and foreign relations.

The Union Minister’s remarks have stirred political debate, with the Congress party yet to respond to the allegations. Goyal, however, remained steadfast in his position, asserting that the agreement — if it exists — must be scrutinized to understand the long-term implications for India’s economic security.