Shashi Tharoor-led House panel flags ‘substantial’ risks from China

A parliamentary committee has flagged ‘substantial risks’ from China and called for a stronger ‘military-related’ activities within the four-nation Quad.

The Quad — India, US, Japan and Australia — has so far eschewed any ‘military-related’ role. China, however, accuses it of being an anti-Beijing grouping.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee for the Ministry of External Affairs, chaired by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, tabled its report in Parliament.

The report said India’s cautious approach towards a security-centric Quad is appreciated; however, it recommended that “given the complex geopolitical dynamics in the Indo-Pacific, a more flexible security dimension within the Quad framework may be explored”.

It proposed initiatives such as joint maritime exercises and enhanced maritime domain awareness (MDA) among Quad members. The committee also called for “proactive steps to deepen the Quad’s security role without compromising India’s multi-alignment approach”.

Expressing concern over China’s escalating presence and growing influence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), the panel said this “poses substantial risks to India’s national security and broader strategic interests”. It cited China’s expanding naval capabilities — commissioning over 15 vessels annually and now surpassing the US navy in size — as well as the induction of advanced warships, multiple carrier battle groups, an additional aircraft carrier and the regular deployment of submarines and naval vessels, as evidence of Beijing’s strategic intent.

The report noted that Quad cooperation aligned with India’s vision for the Indian Ocean holds significant potential for advancing regional infrastructure and connectivity.

It also recommended establishing an inter-ministerial task force to coordinate and streamline efforts, involving key ministries such as External Affairs, Defence, Commerce, Environment, Shipping, Finance and Home Affairs.