In a significant move to enhance diplomatic relations, India and China are set to complete military disengagement along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) by October 28-29, according to ANI. PTI reports that patrolling in certain areas of the LAC will resume once both countries have completed troop withdrawals and dismantled temporary structures.

This agreement follows a major breakthrough aimed at resolving the long-standing border dispute, marking the first successful resolution since the 2020 Galwan clash, which resulted in multiple casualties.

The disengagement will primarily focus on two key friction points: Demchok and the Depsang Plains in eastern Ladakh. An Indian Army source stated, “The agreements will apply specifically to Demchok and Depsang, and not to other regions. Troops from both sides will return to their pre-April 2020 positions and resume patrolling their respective areas.”

In accordance with the agreements, Indian forces have begun relocating equipment to rear positions. However, it remains unclear whether there will be any formal ceremony to mark the completion of disengagement at these points, as several unresolved issues still persist.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar referred to this as an initial step in the process, with further de-escalation of tensions expected to follow. He highlighted that rebuilding trust between the two nations will take time, noting, “The situation at the border has been significantly disturbed, affecting the overall relationship negatively.”

Jaishankar also explained that the agreement addresses three main issues, with disengagement being the priority due to the close proximity of troops, which heightens the risk of incidents. The second issue is de-escalation, followed by the larger challenge of border management and boundary negotiations.

(With inputs from ANI, PTI)