Tensions between China and India have reached an all-time high as both superpowers have positioned their tanks at Pangong Tso Lake at a firing distance. Chinese tanks and machinery have been hindered from moving forward on the Pangong Tso Lake due to Indian Special Frontier Force. The Indian Special Frontier Force holds dominant positions at Kala Top along with army units on other adjoining heights.
The heightened tensions between India and China on the Line of Control in eastern Ladakh have raised concerns on both sides of the border. Both the nations have positioned their tanks on the Pangong Tso Lake at a distance that is appropriate for firing in case there are skirmishes. Despite the ongoing military talks aimed at establishing peace between both nations, India and China continue to demonstrate hostility against one another.
Activities on the Pangong Tso Lake
Chinese military has stationed light and heavy tanks on the shores of Pangong Tso Lake, the tanks are strategically placed at a distance that is optimum for firing if the need arises. On the other side, Indian forces stationed at Kala Top are heavily armed with full artillery and tank support. Indian tanks cover the area south-west of the flashpoint between Spanggur Tso and Chushul. China is hindered from moving their tanks and equipment forward due to hold by Indian Special Frontier Forces at Kala Top.
Due to previous clashes between India and China, both superpowers are engaged in Brigade Commander level talks since 9 am (Tuesday, September 1). These talks are being held at Moldo to resolve conflicts between two nations and establish peace on the Line of Control. Indian media has accused Chinese troops of undertaking “provocative military movements” to “unilaterally” to change the status quo at Ladakh. These accusations arise from skirmishes that took place on the southern bank of Pangong Tso Lake on the night of August 29 and 30.
Indian soldiers responded to proactive military movements by Chinese soldiers by foiling the Chinese army’s attempts to alter the status quo on Ladakh. This constitutes one of the major incidents in the area after Galwan Valley clashes that took place on June 15 and claimed the lives of over 20 Indian soldiers and 40 Chinese soldiers.
Tanks stationed at a firing distance illustrates increasing hostility
In a terse and somewhat cryptic statement, India’s defense ministry has accused the Chinese troops of violating the previous consensus agreed upon by both nations. The provocative military activity undertaken by the Chinese military near Pangong Tso Lake illustrates aggression and hostility.
Indian Army officers and security analysts told the media that the Chinese troops landed a few days ago on the southern side of the Pangong Tso Lake. The region where Chinese troops carried out provocative military activity has always been considered Indian territory. This move was interpreted by Indian media and the military has an invitation to engage in aggressive activities. The fact that India and China have placed Tanks and a firing distance shows the extent of hostility between both nations.
