India-China Border Dispute: A Tense Standoff in the Himalayas
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Four years back in 2020, there was a tense border dispute between two of the most populated and the strongest countries, India (military rank 4 , population rank 1 ) and China ( military rank 3 , population rank 2 ). Officials quoted by the Indian media say thousands of Chinese troops have forced their way into the Galwan valley in Ladakh, in the disputed Kashmir region. The India-China border dispute remains a significant and tense issue, particularly in the Himalayan region. The Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh is currently stable but sensitive, reflecting ongoing tensions between the Indian and Chinese militaries
Diplomatic and military talks have been ongoing, but progress has been slow. These talks aim to resolve the conflict and have opened some options for resolution. However, the situation remains delicate, with both sides maintaining a strong military presence along the disputed border.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently mentioned that about 75% of the disengagement process has been sorted out, but this only pertains to disengagement, not a full resolution of the dispute in his recent meeting along with a Chinese Ambassador.
The border dispute has historical roots and involves a 3,440 km (2,100-mile) long disputed border. The region’s challenging terrain, including rivers, lakes, and snowcaps, often brings soldiers face-to-face, leading to confrontations. The most notable recent clash occurred in June 2020 in the Galwan Valley, resulting in casualties on both sides.
In this standoff , according to a deal between India and China , no firearms were to be used but melee weapons can be used to prevent escalation. However , the outcome was brutal. The Indian Army chief has said the situation is stable and sensitive but not normal. There is a small chance that The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will go to meet The Chinese President Xi Jinping to resolve talks about the dispute in Aksai Chin and Arunachal Pradesh and recognise different territorial claims.
Overall , both the countries should avoid border disputes and try to live in peace. Small border disputes can lead to deadly world wars. Afterall it is a fight between the strongest countries.
The author is a student of New Era Public School, Mayapuri