The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced that India and China have reached a broad consensus to restore the ground situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). According to a year-end review by the MoD, the two countries have been working through diplomatic and military channels to resolve differences in various areas along the LAC. This process has led to an agreement based on mutual security and equality.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted during the Chanakya Defence Dialogue on October 24, 2024, that this consensus demonstrated the importance of continuous dialogue in resolving conflicts. The MoD also assured that the Indian Army remains in a high state of operational readiness to ensure stability along the border.
The statement further mentioned that the situation along the LAC is stable but sensitive. The consensus between India and China includes disengagement and the relocation of troops from friction areas such as Depsang and Demchok, followed by joint verification. Both sides have removed blocking positions, and patrols have resumed in traditional areas of these locations. The Ministry also emphasized that while the situation along the Line of Control (LoC) remains peaceful, the Indian Army continues to monitor the situation closely, remaining prepared for any escalation. Since the revocation of Article 370, the security conditions in Jammu and Kashmir have improved, despite occasional spikes in violence.
On December 20, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that India and China reaffirmed their commitment to working towards a fair and mutually acceptable resolution of the boundary issue, in line with the guiding principles established in the 2005 agreement. A meeting between the Special Representatives of both countries in Beijing on December 18 focused on maintaining peace and stability along the border.
The statement also reflected on the heightened tensions in 2020 when China increased its military presence along the LAC, prompting a strong response from India.
Disclaimer: This Image is taken from Shutterstock.