Kathmandu— Reports alleging slow encroachment by China into Arunachal Pradesh are unfounded, according to Indian military and ITBP (Indo-Tibetan Border Police) sources. These sources state that both forces are actively patrolling and monitoring the border area to prevent any Chinese activity, despite longstanding territorial claims made by Beijing. The dispute centers around China’s assertion that Arunachal Pradesh is part of South Tibet, a claim India firmly rejects as an integral and inalienable part of its territory.

Historical Context of Border Disputes

China first laid claim to Arunachal Pradesh in 1960 during border talks, asserting ownership over approximately 69,000 square kilometers of the state. This was preceded by a military incident in 1959 when Chinese forces attacked and captured an Assam Rifles outpost at Longju, an area that remains under adverse possession. During the 1962 Sino-Indian War, major Chinese operations were launched across several valleys within Arunachal Pradesh, though they retreated north of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) following a ceasefire.

Current Border Security Measures

Recent infrastructure development has significantly enhanced Indian patrolling and surveillance capabilities along the border. While the LAC remains undemarcated in many areas leading to occasional face-offs between patrols, these incidents are routinely resolved through established protocols and mechanisms. A source emphasized that sensational claims of encroachment are often attention-seeking tactics, dismissing unsubstantiated reports circulating on social media.

Diplomatic Efforts and Border Talks

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reiterated Tuesday that Arunachal Pradesh is an “inalienable and integral part of India,” responding to China’s recent attempts to assign Chinese names to locations within the state. Randhir Jaiswal, MEA spokesperson, stated during a media briefing, “Nothing can change this indisputable reality.” Discussions regarding border issues were also held at the 36th meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China border affairs (WMCC) last week, where both sides agreed to continue utilizing existing diplomatic and military channels to resolve outstanding issues.

Focus on Maintaining Peace Along LAC

India has consistently emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and tranquility along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The WMCC meeting underscored this point, with India reiterating that border stability is essential for the overall development of bilateral relations. Discussions also included topics such as boundary delimitation, border management, and trans-border cooperation, with India requesting early convening of a meeting to discuss technical details regarding upstream projects on shared rivers.

Both nations continue to engage in dialogue through established mechanisms like the WMCC and local commander meetings to address border concerns and prevent misunderstandings. The Indian side remains committed to safeguarding its territorial integrity and maintaining peace along the LAC.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.