Indian and Chinese troops are set to finalize their disengagement process at the Depsang Plains and Demchok, marking significant progress in de-escalating the four-year military standoff in eastern Ladakh. This disengagement, verified through joint inspections, signifies a major diplomatic breakthrough following extensive negotiations. The process follows the recent agreement reached on October 21, facilitating a phased withdrawal to restore patrolling rights along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh.
The breakthrough, achieved through persistent talks, aims to de-escalate tensions that began in 2020 and brings both countries closer to restoring pre-conflict conditions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping discussed these developments on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Russia, underscoring the importance of reducing military presence at contested points.
Both countries have conducted multiple rounds of talks to ease tensions at critical areas along the LAC, such as Pangong Tso, Gogra, and Hot Springs. The recent disengagement agreement for Depsang and Demchok is considered especially significant, as these areas have remained unresolved in past discussions.
As Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted, this agreement reflects the outcome of sustained diplomatic negotiations, aimed at resuming patrolling activities that were disrupted since 2020. “This is a positive development that will restore the peace and tranquillity that existed before the standoff,” Jaishankar stated. Likewise, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian described the disengagement process as “progressing smoothly,” affirming China’s commitment to the border settlement.
The current agreement, unlike previous ones, does not include the creation of buffer zones, allowing both sides to resume patrolling activities by October 31. Coordinated patrolling is expected to help maintain order in the disputed areas and prevent future face-offs, enhancing mutual confidence and stability along the LAC.
As discussions continue, both nations aim to resolve remaining boundary issues, which could lead to a potential framework for managing disputed zones more effectively in the long term. This latest disengagement signals a critical step forward in bilateral relations, emphasizing the priority of diplomatic over military measures in addressing border disputes.
(INPUTS FROM THE AGENCIES)
(By Sumit Singh, Web Team at C6N)
