In a significant step toward improving diplomatic ties, India and China are on track to complete military disengagement along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) by October 28-29, as reported by ANI. According to PTI, patrolling in specific areas of the LAC will resume once both sides have finished their troop withdrawals and dismantled temporary structures.
This development follows a key agreement aimed at addressing the ongoing border dispute, marking the first successful resolution since the 2020 Galwan clash, which led to numerous casualties.
The disengagement will focus on two main friction points: Demchok and the Depsang Plains in eastern Ladakh. An Indian Army source clarified, “The new agreements will apply only to Demchok and Depsang, excluding other areas. Troops from both sides will return to their pre-April 2020 positions and resume patrolling their designated areas.”
In line with the agreements, Indian troops have started moving equipment to rear positions in these areas. However, it remains uncertain whether there will be any formal ceremony to mark the completion of disengagement at these locations, as several unresolved issues remain.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar described this as the first step in the process, with further de-escalation of tensions expected to follow. He noted that rebuilding trust between the two nations will take time, adding, “The situation at the border has been deeply disturbed and has had a negative impact on the overall relationship.”
Jaishankar further explained that the agreement addresses three critical issues, with disengagement being the immediate priority, as the proximity of troops increases the risk of incidents. The second priority is de-escalation, followed by the broader challenge of border management and negotiations.
(With inputs from ANI, PTI)