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The ongoing border dispute between India and China in Eastern Ladakh continues to be a point of tension, with recent developments highlighting the challenges in reaching a mutually agreeable solution. Despite an agreement for disengagement and the resumption of patrolling in Depsang and Demchok, disagreements persist over the details of patrol routes and their extent, leading to a stalemate in negotiations.
The Indian Army's recent successful patrol to one of the points in Depsang, announced on X (formerly Twitter), signifies a positive step towards maintaining peace and tranquility along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). However, The Tribune reports that China has been exhibiting reluctance in coordinating the scheduling of Indian patrols, specifically expressing reservations regarding the areas covered by the patrols. Sources suggest that Chinese negotiators are delaying the process, creating a roadblock in the path towards a comprehensive resolution.
The Chinese side has raised concerns about the Indian Army's proposed patrol routes, particularly those involving points 10 and 11. Additionally, they are reportedly hesitant about the distance that Indian patrols would be allowed to cover at points 11A, 12, and 13. These reservations highlight the complexities surrounding the issue of patrolling, as both sides have different perceptions of the LAC and the respective territories they control.
The announcement of the reopening of patrols in Depsang and Demchok was made in October 2023 by Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, preceding a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the BRICS summit in Russia. While the reopening of patrols was a significant development, the ongoing disagreements about the details of those patrols reveal that the path towards a lasting solution remains fraught with challenges. The situation underscores the need for continued dialogue and a willingness from both sides to find common ground, considering the potential ramifications of unresolved border disputes for regional stability and global security.
Source: China 'Dragging Its Feet' on Coordinating Depsang Patrolling: Report