India and China Maintain Lines of Communication Along LAC

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has reiterated that both India and China continue to utilise existing diplomatic and military frameworks to address unresolved issues and prevent miscalculations along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal made these comments during a press briefing on Friday.

Jaiswal highlighted that disturbances sometimes arise along the India-China border when Chinese forces stray from established patrol patterns. His remarks were a response to statements made by Shatrujeet Kapur, the chief of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), regarding ongoing tensions in Arunachal Pradesh.

The MEA spokesperson emphasised the importance of preserving ‘peace and tranquility’ in bilateral relations with China. He stated, “The two sides have also agreed to discuss ways to improve their understanding of the LAC in appropriate areas for better border management.” Jaiswal underlined that maintaining stability in border areas is critical for fostering overall bilateral relations.

Kapur had stated on Thursday that the elite Shaurya platoon of the ITBP was effectively managing a “face-off” situation in Arunachal Pradesh. His comments have sparked a political controversy, with opposition leader Jairam Ramesh criticising the government for its lack of transparency on the matter.

In a speech to troops in Rajasthan's Alwar, Kapur remarked, “In recent days, there was a situation in Arunachal Pradesh where there was a face-off at different locations, which is still continuing. There our Shaurya commando teams did really exceedingly well.” A video of his address was widely circulated on social media before the ITBP later took it down.

Kapur elaborated that the ITBP, initially established as a mountain guerrilla unit, has been tasked with guarding the Indo-China border since 2004. Reports of a standoff with Chinese forces in the remote Taksin area of Upper Subansiri district have been prevalent since July this year.

In August, in response to inquiries about the state of border relations, Jaiswal observed that border conditions have profound implications for overall India-China ties, reiterating the commitment of both parties to utilize established mechanisms to prevent misunderstandings and miscalculations along the border.