As China accused Indian troops of military provocation in eastern Ladakh, government sources on Tuesday confirmed that around 50 People’s Liberation Army (PLA) soldiers approached aggressively towards Indian post near Mukhpari peak at about 6 PM on September 7.
The sources claimed that the Chinese troops’ aim was to remove Indian troops from strategic heights in Mukhpari peak and Reqin La areas in Ladakh.
While giving a detailed view of the September 7 face-off between Indian and Chinese troops, the government sources said that armed with rods, spears and sharp weapons, the PLA troops aggressively approached the Indian posts in eastern Ladakh on Monday evening.
While rejecting China’s allegations that Indian troops crossed the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and “outrageously fired” warning shots near the Pangong lake in eastern Ladakh, the sources said that when the Indian Army dissuaded the approaching Chinese PLA troops they fired 10-15 rounds in air to intimidate our troops.
India continues to dominate strategic peaks around southern bank of Pangong lake area, they said.
Earlier in the day, the Indian Army categorically stated that it did not transgressed across the LAC or resorted to use of any aggressive means. The Army blamed China of violating agreements and resorting to aggressive manoeuvres.
While issuing a statement on China’s claims, the Army said, “In the instant case on September 7, it was the PLA troops who were attempting to close-in with one of our forward positions along the LAC and when dissuaded by own (Indian) troops, PLA troops fired a few rounds in the air in an attempt to intimidate own troops.”
“At no stage has Indian Army transgressed across LAC or resorted to use of any aggressive means, including firing.”
The Indian Army said that it is committed to maintaining peace and tranquillity along the LAC, but won’t compromise if nation’s security is threatened. “The Army is also determined to protect national integrity and sovereignty at all costs,” it added.
WhatsApp us