Indian Army Chief General has issued a sharp warning over what he described as “illegal actions” by China and Pakistan in the Shaksgam Valley, reiterating that the strategically vital region remains an integral part of India despite attempts by Beijing and Islamabad to alter the status quo through unlawful arrangements.

Speaking on the issue, the Army Chief underlined that the Shaksgam Valley, also known as the Trans-Karakoram Tract, lies within the Union Territory of Ladakh and was never legally ceded by India. He emphasised that any agreement between China and Pakistan concerning the area has no validity, as Pakistan has no sovereign authority to transfer territory it occupies illegally.

The remarks were widely seen as a direct reference to the 1963 so-called boundary agreement between China and Pakistan, under which Islamabad handed over the Shaksgam Valley to Beijing. India has consistently rejected the agreement, calling it null and void under international law. Military experts note that the Army Chief’s statement reflects growing concern over coordinated Chinese and Pakistani efforts to consolidate control over the region.

General pointed out that China’s infrastructure development and military presence in and around Shaksgam Valley amount to an attempt to legitimise an illegal occupation. He warned that such actions undermine regional stability and violate established norms, particularly when they are carried out in disputed territory without the consent of the rightful sovereign.

Pakistan’s role, the Army Chief noted, remains equally problematic. By ceding Indian territory to China, Islamabad not only violated India’s sovereignty but also set a dangerous precedent of collusion aimed at strategically encircling India. Analysts see this as part of a broader China–Pakistan nexus that combines military cooperation with territorial manoeuvring to pressure India on multiple fronts.

The Army Chief reiterated that India’s position on Jammu and Kashmir, including areas under Pakistan’s illegal occupation, has been clear and consistent. He stressed that no amount of diplomatic posturing or historical distortion by China or Pakistan can change the legal reality on the ground.

As India continues to strengthen its military posture in Ladakh, the Army’s top leadership has made it clear that New Delhi remains vigilant against any attempts to alter boundaries through force or stealth. The statement serves as a firm reminder that India will continue to call out and counter illegal actions by both China and Pakistan that threaten its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

This image is taken from The Telegraph.