India, China faceoff in Arunachal Pradesh; PLA troops briefly detained

Indian and Chinese troops had a faceoff in Arunachal Pradesh last week, Asianet Newsable has learnt.

According to sources, the faceoff happened when over 200 Chinese soldiers were intercepted close to the Line of Actual Control during a patrol mission.

Some of the Chinese soldiers were detained by the Indian troops, sources said, adding that the disengagement happened after the local commanders resolved the issue.

The faceoff, which reportedly happened in the Yangtze area of East Tawang, comes amid a series of talks between the Chinese and Indian military commanders to de-escalate tensions and disengage in Ladakh.

Indian Army Chief Gen MM Naravane had stated last week that the Corps Commanders of the two countries would hold their 13th round of talks in October to further withdraw from the remaining regions. However, the Army Chief had pointed out also that China's PLA had stationed many troops near the Ladakh region's LAC.

Arunachal Pradesh shares one of the largest borders with China measuring 1,126 km. Beijing has been claiming Arunachal Pradesh as part of Southern Tibet while India contests it. Indian forces have been keeping a close watch and have intensified their intelligence across its borders post-Galwan valley clashes last year.

Giving details of the incident, sources said that the perception of LAC is different for both sides and that shows up when they undertake patrolling activities up to their own perceived LAC.

However, sources added that there are established protocols and mechanisms that have been agreed upon by both sides whenever patrols of both sides physically meet. 
In some instances, the physical engagement could last for a few hours before disengagement as per mutual understanding, the source further said.

Over the years, China has undertaken infrastructure construction activity in past along the border areas. In response, India too ramped up the border infrastructure, including the construction of roads, bridges etc, providing much-needed access to the local population along the border.

Also Read: 

An eye on adversary, Govt ramping up road network in J&K and Ladakh

China holding night battle drills near Indian border: Report

• PLA
• Tawang
• Yangtze
• arunachal pradesh
• china
• chinese incursion
• indian army
• ladakh
• line of actual control
• tibet
• soliders
• disengagement
• de-escalation