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The ongoing standoff between India and China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh continues to be a significant source of tension between the two Asian giants. Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi, while describing the situation as “stable,” acknowledges that it is “not normal” and remains sensitive. He underscores India’s desire to restore the ground situation to its pre-April 2020 state, encompassing the pre-existing ground occupation, buffer zones, and patrolling arrangements. Until this is achieved, the situation is deemed sensitive, and the Indian Army maintains operational readiness to address any potential contingency.
The Army Chief identifies a profound erosion of trust as the most significant casualty of the standoff. He emphasizes the need for India to compete, cooperate, coexist, confront, and contest with China. This multifaceted approach highlights the complex nature of the bilateral relationship, characterized by both potential for cooperation and points of friction. Despite ongoing negotiations for disengagement from the remaining friction areas, the Army Chief stresses that the ultimate success depends on the actions of ground commanders.
General Dwivedi introduces the concept of “grey zone” tactics employed by China, referencing examples like the artificial island reclamation in the South China Sea, the Doklam standoff, the Kargil conflict, and the Galwan Valley clash. These incidents, he argues, fall short of conventional warfare but nonetheless pose significant challenges. India, he emphasizes, needs to be prepared for such grey zone battles across all domains, necessitating a shared understanding of the strategic ramifications of tactical actions at all levels of command.
The article highlights the ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the standoff. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has indicated that roughly 75% of the disengagement issues have been addressed, with the remaining issues requiring further attention. He emphasizes the militarization of the border, a consequence of both countries bringing their forces closer to the LAC. While there have been several high-level political engagements, including diplomatic talks and Corps Commander level meetings, achieving a lasting resolution remains a complex challenge.
The article underscores the importance of trust in bilateral relations, particularly in the context of a tense military standoff. The Indian perspective emphasizes the need to restore the status quo ante along the LAC, and highlights the potential for grey zone tactics to escalate into conflict. The article concludes by suggesting that achieving a breakthrough in disengagement negotiations will require careful coordination and a shared understanding of the strategic implications of tactical actions.