New Delhi: Even as Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) troops continue to occupy positions on Finger 4 at Pangong lake in eastern Ladakh, Indian soldiers have occupied some heights overlooking PLA positions in the north bank areas, sources said.
The source added that it is a precautionary deployment instead of pre-emptive action.
Indian Army troops that specialize in mountain warfare has now taken over vantage points north and south of Pangong lake. Sources said that now the movement of Chinese troops, vehicles, and new Chinese defences are visible at north and south banks of Pangong lake.
In some places, heavily-armed troops are in close proximity. The troops are not on high alert at these positions.
The Indian Army has clearly pointed out that its forces will retaliate if Chinese troops make provocative military moves. Indian troops can now dominate the Chinese Moldo garrison and the Spangur Gap under Chinese control.
Both India and China lay claim to some of these heights. One of the most critical heights the Indian Army is manning is the Rechin La, which the Chinese are protesting against.
The Chinese have made multiple attempts to dislodge Indian troops. The north bank of the lake is divided into 8 fingers that are contested by both sides. India claims the LAC at Finger 8 and had been holding on to the area till Finger 4 but the Chinese have been camping at Finger 4 and have set up fortifications between Finger 5 and 8.
India and China are engaged in a four-month-long standoff in eastern Ladakh. Despite several levels of dialogue, there has not been any breakthrough and the deadlock continues.
The External Affairs Minister was speaking with his Chinese counterpart at the time of going to press.