The situation in eastern Ladakh at the face-off points between Indian Army and the PLA–Pangong Tso, Hot Springs and Galwan river–remains unchanged from what I wrote in my last column in ThePrint. By now, the additional formations that would have been inducted by both sides to cater to escalation and further operations as per respective operational strategies, would have fully acclimatised to operate in these high-altitude regions.
Officially, both sides have been restrained in their statements and reiterated faith in diplomacy. Defence minister Rajnath Singh has said that diplomatic and military-level talks as per existing border management mechanism are in progress. While harping on “differing perceptions” about the Line of Actual Control (LAC), Singh said the Chinese presence along the LAC was in “achhi khasi sankhya (sizeable numbers)”. Major General-level talks have been conducted on 2 June and Lieutenant General-level, that is, talks at the level of Corps Commanders, are scheduled on 6 June.
China now has an upper hand in talks
Having seized the initiative by securing approximately 40-60 square km of Indian territory in three different areas, China will be negotiating from a position of strength and will try to impose unacceptable conditions–no further development of border infrastructure on the Indian side–to restore status quo on its own terms. If diplomacy fails, China has come prepared for a border skirmish or a limited war.
India’s task is cut out. It has to ensure that status quo ante 1 April, 2020 prevails for quasi sanctification of the “un-demarcated” LAC, so that China does not advance similar claims in future to gain tactical advantage and embarrass/humiliate India at will. If it cannot be done diplomatically, then it must be done by force. However, rather than evolving a clear strategy and broadly sharing it with the nation, the Narendra Modi government and the military have gone into ‘denial’ about any loss of territory, attributing the present situation to differing perceptions about the LAC.
Some journalists and activists are also busy peddling their interpretation of the alignment of the LAC to prove that no territory has been seized by China. A perception is being built for diplomatic acquiescence. What else does China want? We are playing into its hands.
I explain the ground situation in the three areas where loss of territory has taken place and analyse the dangers of justifying the loss to “differing perceptions of the LAC”.
Also read: ‘Unprecedented’ — India, China deploy Lt Gen-rank army officers to solve border row
Pattern of defence in Ladakh
The term LAC is not demarcated through a formal agreement, either side can vary in its perception. And this has remained the case despite the numerous confidence building agreements signed since 1993, and two informal summits. Out of the 857-km-long border in Ladakh, only 368 km is international border (IB) and the rest of the 489 km is the LAC. This was the line reached by China in 1962, which is exactly as per its 1960 claim line.
It is a treacherous high-altitude terrain with the valley height being 14,000 – 15,000 ft and hill features being at heights of 16,000-18,000 ft. The main defences cannot be physically located along the LAC because the terrain is not tactically suitable. These are located on the Ladakh Range, Pangong Range, along Shyok River and in the Depsang plains. The distance to the LAC varies from 10 to 80 km, depending upon the terrain. The main defences are manned by the Army and the LAC is secured by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP). The security of the vast spaces ahead of the main defences is ensured by covering elements deployed at selected places, mechanised forces and by physical/electronic surveillance. The ITBP posts are along the routes of ingress and in disputed areas, but are not continuous like we have on the IB in plains.
There are vast gaps between the ITBP posts along the LAC. There are areas where the ITBP posts are well short of the LAC due to lack of infrastructure. To defend the entire length of the LAC, in strength and man, the main defences, as we do at the LoC, we will require at least 4-5 divisions instead of just one that is committed now. Even in the present pattern, the ITBP strength has to increase tenfold to effectively cover the entire length along the LAC.
Also read: Not Pangong or Galwan, why India must worry about Hotsprings-Gogra region most
Pangong sector
The map shown above is at slight variation from the one in my last column based on fresh inputs.
Some journalists are misinterpreting the ‘Fingers’ north of Pangong Tso to justify the denial of loss of territory. The annotated satellite image of Google Earth above gives the correct location of the Fingers and the territory lost. In 1962, we were holding the area up to Sirijap. This was captured by the PLA in 1962 and consequently the LAC runs west of it at Finger 8, on to Ane La pass. The PLA post with a jetty (in pic above) is located east of Sirijap. Till 2011, our ITBP post was located well to the rear at Phobrang. The Chinese Claim Line is up to Finger 4. ITBP patrolled up to Finger 8 and the PLA up to Finger 4.
In 2013 – 2014 we developed a road to Finger 3 and Ane La pass. The ITBP established a new post near Finger 3 in 2013. The PLA patrols started blocking our patrols between Finger 4 and 8. The Chinese considered the establishment of the post at Finger 3 a violation of border management agreements. The frequent patrol blocking by either side led to a violent scuffle on 15 August 2017 and thereafter jostling by patrols became common. The PLA post remained at Sirijap and no post was established between Finger 4 and 8. Our patrols continued to patrol upto Finger 8.
In end April and beginning May this year, the PLA moved in regular troops and physically secured the area between Finger 4 and Finger 8 and now sits on top of Finger 4 . As per my assessment, based on my experience and media reports, the PLA has secured the entire area from Finger 8 to Finger 4, a distance of 8 km, and are overlooking our ITBP post between Finger 4 and Finger 3. It has also secured the heights along Fingers 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 up to height of 4,500 – 5,000 meters ie 4-5 km to the north. Total area secured by the PLA is 35-40 square km. The PLA has deployed one or two battalions to defend the area as marked (on Image 1) with one or two battalions as reserve at Sirijap.
Also read: India, China need to break stalemate, greater challenges ahead: Former envoy Ashok Kantha
Galwan sector
In Galwan sector, the PLA has secured the heights north and south of the Galwan river with. The PLA seems to have come across the LAC for 2-3 km in the valley and then climbed up the heights. It is also possible that it climbed the heights from China’s side of the valley and then moved along the heights westwards up to 3-4 km. What matters in mountains/ high-altitude is the control of the heights. The valleys become untenable when surrounding heights are with the enemy.
It is likely that the PLA has secured the heights with two battalions with one held as reserve at the LAC.
For the apologists of the “differing perceptions” who have theories to deny loss of territory, it is pertinent to point out that there are no differing perceptions about the LAC along the Galwan River. The intrusion here is deliberate to threaten the Darbuk-Shyok-Daulat Beg Oldie (DS-DBO) Road and prevent us from defending it by securing the Galwan valley and the heights north and south of the river.
Also read: Chinese intrusion in Galwan lasted for two weeks before it was cleared by Indian troops
Hot Springs
As per my assessment, at Hot Springs/Gogra, the PLA with nearly a battalion has almost surrounded the post and effectively denied the approach to Kongka La pass, which lies on the LAC but is not held by us. The aim here is to prevent road construction by India to the Kongka La pass. At Hot Springs and Kongka La, which is 4-5 km away from Hot Springs, there is no “differing perception” about the LAC.
Also read: Chinese intrusion in Galwan lasted for two weeks before it was cleared by Indian troops
Playing into the hands of the Chinese
The justification of “differing perceptions” is just playing into the hands of the Chinese. We are very clear about the alignment of the LAC as we have cremated/buried our comrades who were killed in action in 1962. China stopped exactly on its claim line of 1960 and our rear posts were located on this line during the ’62 War. It is the Chinese claim line that has been changing since 1950.
It should be clear to the discerning reader that to be in denial and acquiesce to explain the loss of territory to “differing perceptions” will open pandora’s box, and in future, result in loss of more territory, possibly at Chumar, Demchok, Fukche, Kailash Range, Hot Springs, along the Shyok River and in Depsang Plains. Who knows China may apply the same logic at Tawang in the near future?
China cannot be allowed to get away with usurping Indian territories like it has done till now. This confrontation must end with status quo ante 1 April, 2020 and sanctification of the LAC with formal exchange of maps. Major Shaitan Singh, PVC and Major (later Lt Col) Dhan Singh Thapa, PVC who defended Rezang La and Sirijap in 1962 and 3,000 of our soldiers who were killed in action would be very unhappy in Valhalla. They died fighting in areas that lie along the current LAC. It would be a shame if we now acquiesce to give up those areas without firing a shot using the fig leaf of “differing perceptions”.
No wonder the Chinese military strategist and philosopher Sun Tzu said some 2,500 years ago: “For to win one hundred victories in one hundred battles is not the acme of skill. To subdue the enemy without fighting is the acme of skill.”
Lt Gen H S Panag PVSM, AVSM (R) served in the Indian Army for 40 years. He was GOC in C Northern Command and Central Command. Post-retirement, he was Member of Armed Forces Tribunal. Views are personal.
The author fails to mention that the current situation is fallout of issuance of official map by Indian Govt showing disputed areas (Aksai Chin) as part of India, contrary to agreements with China to freeze the dispute and resolve through negotiations.
Probably true, the writer being a senior army officer (retd) must’ve posted from his genuine source of info. If true, why then the govt is disgustingly hiding truth? Why forces were not launched offensive at the outset to vacate our areas from Chinese instead of playing perception politics on the issue?
If Chinese have crossed LAC, we can do the same and encircle the intrusion points.
People have right to know the truth.
The print, seems llike or this article is totally funded and biased on the Chinese side. No proofs only assumptions. Please stop fake propaganda at least this time. This is about the country, the national security. Keep your hatred aside When it comes regarding the country.
Seems like the print is funded by chinese govt. Totally hypothetical article.
The author is absolutely correct. The Indian Army did not dominate. own territory and left it unguarded. The Chinese have occupied it a la Pak in Kargil in 1999. We got rid of Pak occupation due to the valour of our young officers and men. Will the political leadership and the Armed Forces have the courage to throw the Chinese out by force? Let us wait and see.
Don’t criticize now, try to get a solution.
Criticism is not patriotism !
Don’t try to be Vijay Mallya,& so called…..
The author is absolutely correct. The Indian Army was not alert and had not dominated own territory. The Chinese came and occupied the territory just as the Pakis did in 1999. We got the Pakisout, let us see if the Indian Army can get the Chinese out. Difficult!
Denial! Really! If our founders were so strong, the would not had given or own land to make other countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh and all.
And one more thing, Army persons are brave, few less hearted views can’t be a perception of all group or country, rather this is kind of deception of people who are not satisfied even in his life! Every Government of India did their best to put India in adverse situation, and if some person has doubt, they may come into politics and prove themselves, not to show random graphics and fake data to unrest the country. You guys are getting watched, it now or there, we will be punished.
Unless there is an official statement from either country comes up, anyone’s posts regarding this including u sir has no credibility!
#DeshdhroiPrint Paid articles Under congress , Support Anti national activities and much more you should be banned .
Guess when it comes to toeing a political line, the respect for the uniform you once donned gets thrown out of the window.This man hs panag had openly endorsed a military coup if Narendra modi came to power in 2019.
No surprise he doesn’t have slightest bit of hesitation in writing bullshit about forces he once served. He is just another namazi chamcha of khangress. No need to even consider whatever he says. All he is saying is just what khangress wants you to believe to serve just one purpose __ showing current government in bad light at whatever cost.
You can compare China with a narcissist. They will never change. They will never resolve the matter.. More you try to please them more agrieved they will pretend.
Going no contact is the solution.
India should get prepared to defend and also attack if required. There are so many solution to Chinese problem.
1- Rake up and oppose China on matters relating to Tibet, Taiwan, Hongkong, Uigher Muslim, Corona spread,
2- Enter into an alliance with all willing China neighboring countries to defend unitedly intrusion of any territory of the member country,by China.
3 Active public participation to boycott all Chinese goods and services.
4- oppose China at world forums.
US will not allow china to grab indian territory.i am sure.
What is the authenticity of this article.looks like authentic from your heart. Please show
When I read the title I thought it was another vicious propagandist of print. But then I read the name of author. Still, even if they have intruded inside this “finger under boot” language is not expected from atleast a retired army officer . Worst of all this author no proof to show for his claims. He just writes “likely under Chinese control”.i don’t get it . I mean I understand print’s intentions very well but still it’s very shameful on the part of an retired army veteran to write such articles with equally brazen title without having any solid proof to show for his claims validation.
We are Confident of our Ethical standards and Truth.ultimately we will get what is ours
This is a very disturbing development and to say the least, shoddy response from the Indian Government. Rather than reclaiming and defending our territory denying that it is not exactly ours and deliberately being ambiguous will only embolden China.
Thank you for such an analytical, clearly expressed write up that apprised us, citizens and commoners about the exact ground reality. We need to apply pressure on the Government to ensure we push back this infiltration. Dealing with a pandemic cannot be an excuse to lose land!
It is tragic that a Lieutenant General uses words like “India’s fingers under Chinese boots” while I do not debate his views, I do take umbrage at his choice of words for creating cheap sensationalism. Not expected from you Sir. You used to be inspirational.
Lies & lies all around, and the way of using words to describe scenario defines either you are incompetent in posting unbiased news or it would be your dearness & fear for China. Both the ways you’re an incapable as a writer. And for your information if china was so deliberate & strong, why didn’t it stimulated in the first stance itself. Well, china maybe more technically advanced & more stable but, when it comes to go for a war & with too a country like India, Japan or any western developed countries, China’s real potential comes into spotlight. China’s is potentially unstable & it’s own countrymen has no faith in its government. So, both neighbours that’s China and India can’t afford a war in this pandemic crisis & when it comes to war the latter one won’t shy away from going for it. So, only option left is diplomatic channels & that’s what both countries are looking for. From next time, I hope you go through all the news all around globe & then dont write something peculiar & false.
Wah The Print
I just dont beleieve anything that The Print and its paid anti Indian jurnos propagate
First thing is why they have become aggressive at this time, they will capture the land stay for a while and go back, don’t panic they want Indian market which gives them money to buy more lands , they will not mess up with India to the extent of loosing Indian market,
This article is fused with highly misleading and crippling perspective of the efforts put forth by Indian bravehearts at border. The heading is clickbait. Poor journalism. It always feels that The Print is fed a stockpile of greens to run their show against the country or the ruling party sentiments.
All Indians except for bhakts know that we have lost a lot of territory to China. China knows that this is the best time to take advantage: when there is aan Indian government that addicted to PR that it cannot admit the truth. China wants land and will keep taking it because it knows that the Indian government cannot even admit leave alone act.
The print is always against indiA for sure n doing western work in india n publish nonsense n anti news n all know it’s
The Congress print n not thr print
The beautiful country has troubles with Pakistan and China and recently with nepal. 1947 itself India got a permanent life long enimy as Pakistan. Every year this is becoming a problem near our shoulder.
Unfortunately a Business country like China wants to establish its business all over the world . It finds India a great threat to its dreams. Small land like this dispute is only a reason for it to create tension.
China with its Communist attitude will create a hevoc in coming days. India is having lot of political parties and their differences of opinion will be another issue. For each and every thing they will confuse our citizens becuase of their vested interests.
It is really sensitive issue and we have a stabilised government may take suitable steps.
You are boot lickers…
I will believe in the military and Government rather than believing your “story”..
ok Chinese are in Indian finger, but that is not going to solve the Print’s desire, i e. Modi to resign. BJP to be defeated.
Hey Shekhar,
Please let us have an article on ‘How to Raise Funds from Abroad for Crusades?’ Thank you.
How to believe this retired General ? Has he given any proof to justify his article ?
56inch chest can’t work here it needs ripe wisdom not raw.
Stop try strategic defence expert on google map. What is your experience in field and have you been in LAC area. You are acting on the behest of PLA…
stop posting anti nation misinformation.
Salute the writer for informing the citizens the real picture on the Indo_Chin border. But the bhaktas will talk about the failure of Nehru. Even they will question the credibility of the writer, though he is a retired army man of high calibre and occupied high post in military
70 years ailment cannot be cured within 5 – 10 years.
It will take at least 15 years, that too with concerted efforts &bitter pills financially/politically/militarilly/diplomacy/internal peace/traitor-free nation.
Its becoming increasingly clear that China has intruded the accepted LAC and occupied heights/areas to
either physically deny us the area or to dominate us making our stay there untenable tactically.
In this I tend to agree with Dr Ashley Tellis where he says that the only way India can hold China shirt of a war, is to do a tit for tat in areas where India has the tactical advantage..and be prepared for the fall out of the action
Print what proff you have that India has lost its land.
Is this author foreign agent?this person does not have confidence ain the govt and security forces like otherantunationals ,specially,cingresss
This situation is not developed in one day or a year. The author was Northern Army Commander in his time and as such should be answering some tough questions before he can ask any.
One can’t share everything with public in operations because the exposure of bare facts can be detrimental to achieving the goal.
First the cards dealt have to be played.
It is best to be left to the professionals currently dealing with the issue full-time.
One may also ask what is the source and authenticity of his information.
The Wire and Print etc are clearly politically motivated media. If Gen Panag had something concrete to offer he should let the authorities know directly and not publish vitriolic diatribe in public.
This is a type of political Yellow Journalism!
I have never heard anything good about the current government from your editors’ mouths.
You are lying and with such favourable nature that you are showing towards china seems like that you are supporting china.why you always print fake news which always keeps Indians moral down.are you really dumb? without Knowing the facts you are promoting all the non sense things.get some brain and then print anything.
kahan gayi BJP waalon ki laal aankh, aankhen laal karne ki baatein kar rahein Thea…abhi toh muh laal hua hai, aagey pata nahi Kya Kya laal honga
Don’t worry… … I shall with God Shiva’s blessings and support will regain all lost territories within a decade….
what is the heading you put.. Sense less journalists..
Apart from the ladakh confrontation, it is the right time to ask GEn Rawat what permanent gains did he acquire from the DOklam action. When we with- drew from DOklam ( Bhutanese territory) , did CHina agree not to extend their roads ? This does not seem to be the case , since imagery shows that they re continuing their activity in Doklam. So, was that just a photo op and is the current action a payback for DOklam , by China ?
Govt must clarify what was gained in DOklam, apart from dealing withe the current situation.
Are you anti India and humanity?
Our government becomes like a jokes. Cant stand anywhere. We are deteriorating day by day. One day china will rule us. We are just lipsync only.
The Print-Name is enough ?
Indian Troops must be kept maintained at the current location and not back down. if backed down under mutual understanding, china will further encroach seeing ni troops there.
China had an upper hand all through from Nehru and Gandhi family. Why blame modi? At least modi is trying to increase infra structure – roads, bridges, airstrips – in the border areas to save what we have. Do not imagine you can fight China with 1945 guns like Nehru.