India-China clash at Galwan Valley

A violent clash broke out between the Indian and Chinese soldiers recently in the Galwan Valley of Ladakh region. Around 20 Indian soldiers were killed in the face-off.

Highlights

The loss of 20 Army personnel on the Line of Actual Control is considered as the most violent face off between Indian Army and the Chinese troops in more than 5 decades.

What is the issue?

The Armies of India and China are currently engaged in standoff in Galwan valley, Pangong Tso, Demchok and Daulat Beg Oldie in Ladakh.

The stand off between the countries has increased in recent weeks as India is building a strategic road through the Galwan valley that is close to China. The road connects the region to an airstrip. This improves military access of India to the region.

External Affairs Minister

The External Affairs Minister of India Shri S Jai Shankar held a telephonic conversation with his counterpart Wang Yi. The minister has conveyed the protest of the Indian Government over the stand-off in strongest terms.

Background

The stand-off in the Galwan area was one of the biggest flashpoints in the 1962 war. China till date opposes to Indian constitutional provisions in the area. India, in 2019, abrogated Article 370 of the Constitution ending the special status to Jammu and Kashmir. China was one of the handful of countries that condemned the move. China even tried to raise the issue in the international forum including United Nations Security Council.

Month: Current Affairs - June, 2020