India and China completed the disengagement process along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh on Tuesday, starting the verification of troop positions and dismantling of infrastructure in the area, defence sources reported. This development follows the recent agreement between both nations on coordinated patrolling in the disputed regions of Depsang Plains and Demchok.
Dismantling and Verification Underway
Sources confirmed that the dismantling of temporary structures in the Depsang Plains and Demchok is nearly complete, with verification conducted through physical checks and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Both sides have withdrawn troops to rear positions, and small patrol groups of around 10 to 15 soldiers will now patrol areas inaccessible since April 2020.
Coordinated Patrolling to Begin Soon
The Indian Army stated that once verification is complete, coordinated patrolling would commence within two days. Both armies have agreed to share prior information to avoid accidental confrontations. The new arrangement allows Indian troops to resume patrolling at critical points, including Track Junction and Charding Nullah in Demchok.
Despite the disengagement, the Indian Army will maintain a substantial presence in Ladakh until a broader consensus on border patrolling is reached with China. Defence sources added that a similar arrangement is being discussed for the stand-off areas in Arunachal Pradesh’s Yangtse, Asaphila, and Subansiri Valleys.
