Indian troops resume patrolling along the LAC in Demchok as India-China border relations take a step forward

Indian troops have started patrolling the Demchok sector in eastern Ladakh, marking a significant step in the recent disengagement agreement between India and China. The two countries have agreed to start coordinated patrols based on their respective perceptions of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in both the Demchok and Depsang sectors. Patrolling in the Depsang sector is expected to commence soon, according to Indian Army sources.

This coordinated patrolling arrangement allows both sides to be aware of each other's patrol schedules, reducing the chances of accidental conflicts or misunderstandings in these sensitive areas.

In a gesture of goodwill, the Indian and Chinese armies exchanged sweets at various border points on Thursday in celebration of Diwali. This symbolic exchange took place at Hot Springs, Karakoram Pass, Daulat Beg Oldi, Kongka La, and the Chushul-Moldo meeting point in Ladakh, reinforcing the message of peace and cooperation.

Ladakh Member of Parliament (MP) Haji Hanifa expressed optimism about the recent developments. "Those of us who live near the border know what war feels like. We desire peace along the border. We welcome the agreement between the two countries, but we want to see it implemented on the ground. Tensions along the border should be reduced through diplomatic means," said MP Hanifa.

The recent disengagement follows a tense standoff that began in 2020, which significantly strained India-China relations. Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi noted that restoring trust along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) would be a gradual process to return to the April 2020 status quo. He emphasised the steps of disengagement, de-escalation, and buffer zone management as essential measures to ensure a peaceful border environment.

In a recent statement, Chinese Ambassador to India Xu Feihong acknowledged the challenges of managing relations between the two neighboring nations. He noted that it was natural for India and China to have differences as neighbouring countries, but explained that the important thing was how to handle and solve these differences.

The recent disengagement and coordinated patrolling efforts represent a hopeful turn toward stability and peace along the border. Both countries aim to work through their differences and establish a more secure and peaceful LAC, gradually easing tensions through diplomacy and collaboration.

(With inputs from agencies)