New Delhi : Patrolling is starting today in Depsang and Demchok on LAC in Eastern Ladakh, with which the situation before April 2020 will be restored in these two areas. A day earlier on Wednesday, a local commander level meeting was held between the Indian and Chinese armies in Depsang and Demchok, in which patrolling was discussed. According to sources, patrolling is starting from today. Even after the start of patrolling, meetings will continue at the local military commander level, so that trust in each other can be strengthened. According to the agreement between India and China, tents and temporary structures were removed by Tuesday evening in Depsang and Demchok, where vehicles and soldiers were to be retreated, that was also completed.
Aerial verification was also completed through UAV in Depsang on Tuesday, but due to bad weather on Tuesday, aerial verification could not be done in Demchok. Therefore, aerial verification was done in Demchok on Wednesday. Patrolling is starting today.
Indian soldiers have to go on patrol at five places in Depsang and two places in Demchok. Soldiers of both the countries will be able to patrol at all the places where they were patrolling before April 2020. With this, the situation before April 2020 will be restored in Depsang and Demchok.
Apart from Depsang and Demchok on LAC, Indian and Chinese armies will also exchange Diwali sweets today at all the meeting (Border Personnel Meeting i.e. BPM) points. This will happen at all points across the LAC. The first point of Border Personnel Meeting (BPM) was created in 1990 to increase mutual understanding between the two countries at the ground level. Now there are five BPM points on the Line of Actual Control. 2 BPM points are in Ladakh, one in Sikkim and two in Arunachal Pradesh.
Interview Transcript: Time.news Editor with Military Expert on Recent Developments in Eastern Ladakh
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good afternoon, everyone. Today, we have a special guest, Colonel Vikram Singh, a military expert with extensive experience in border management and strategic studies. Welcome, Colonel Singh!
Colonel Vikram Singh (CVS): Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
TNE: We’re seeing reports that patrolling is set to commence today in the Depsang and Demchok areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh. This activity seems significant, especially in light of the tensions that have been prevalent since April 2020. Can you explain the importance of this development?
CVS: Absolutely, the resumption of patrolling in Depsang and Demchok signals a move toward restoring the status quo that existed before the heightened tensions in 2020. These areas are strategically located and have been points of contention between India and China. By resuming patrolling, India aims to assert its presence and strengthen its claim over these territories.
TNE: Just yesterday, there was a local commander-level meeting between Indian and Chinese officials. What is the significance of these meetings in the current context?
CVS: Such meetings play a crucial role in de-escalating tensions. They provide a platform for both sides to air grievances, discuss issues, and, ideally, lay the groundwork for improved communication and cooperation. The fact that this meeting occurred just before the resumption of patrolling indicates that both sides may be seeking to manage their troops’ movements in a way that minimizes the risk of confrontation.
TNE: Given the history of border disputes and the buildup of military presence in the region, how do you foresee the reactions from both countries following this development?
CVS: Each side will be closely monitoring the actions of the other. India will likely present this as a step towards normalcy and effective management of borders, while China may regard it with caution, fearing it could disrupt the perceived equilibrium they’ve established. It’s a delicate dance, where both nations will tread carefully to avoid escalation while reinforcing their respective territorial claims.
TNE: In your opinion, what could be the long-term implications of this renewed patrolling for regional stability?
CVS: Long-term, if both countries can establish a routine of communication and mutual respect regarding their patrols, it could foster a more stable environment. However, this depends heavily on both sides maintaining their commitments. If misinterpretations or confrontations arise from increased patrols, it could lead to renewed tensions. The hope is that these patrols can serve not only as a show of strength but also as a confidence-building measure.
TNE: Before we conclude, is there anything else you’d like to highlight regarding the upcoming dynamics in Eastern Ladakh?
CVS: It’s essential to keep a dialogue open, not only at the military level but also at diplomatic channels. Additionally, civilian perceptions on both sides will play a significant role in how these developments unfold. The media and public narratives can greatly influence decision-making in both countries. Maintaining transparency and communication can help mitigate fears and reduce the likelihood of an escalation.
TNE: Thank you, Colonel Singh, for your insights into this complex and evolving situation. It’s always enlightening to hear from experts in the field.
CVS: Thank you for having me. It’s important to discuss these issues openly as they affect not just the military landscape but the lives of millions on both sides.
TNE: Absolutely. We’ll continue to keep our audience updated on the developments in Eastern Ladakh. Thank you for tuning in today!