Diwali Delight at LAC: India-China troops exchange sweets as tensions ease at Depsang and Demchok
In a positive gesture marking Diwali, soldiers from India and China exchanged sweets along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), signaling an effort to ease border tensions. The gesture was observed not only in newly disengaged zones like Depsang and Demchok in Eastern Ladakh but also at various other border points, marking a step toward stability. Troops from both nations have withdrawn from these contentious areas, with plans to resume patrols in the near future.
Disengagement Finalized at Depsang and Demchok
According to military sources, the disengagement process at Depsang and Demchok—stalled for over four years—was completed on Wednesday. Afterward, local commanders from both sides met to discuss and synchronize patrol schedules, which may resume as early as this week. Since tensions escalated, no patrols have been conducted in these regions. However, recent agreements have paved the way for a return to standard operations, though limited to these specific areas for now.
Diwali Sweets Exchanged Across Border Locations
As part of a goodwill gesture, Indian and Chinese soldiers exchanged Diwali sweets at multiple border locations, including Chushul Moldo in Ladakh, Nathu La in Sikkim, and Bum La in Arunachal Pradesh. Sources within the Indian military confirmed that sweets were exchanged at five Border Meeting Points (BMPs), reflecting a cautiously optimistic step in military diplomacy by both nations.
Context of the LAC Dispute and Ongoing Disengagement Efforts
The LAC, spanning 3,488 kilometers across three sectors—Eastern, Middle, and Western—is the world’s longest disputed boundary. Both nations have long laid claim to territories along this line, with territorial disputes ranging from Ladakh to Arunachal Pradesh. While disengagement agreements are in place for Depsang and Demchok, discussions continue for other areas.
Strained Relations Since the 2020 Galwan Valley Clashes
Relations between India and China have been tense since the fierce 2020 clashes in Galwan Valley, which led to heightened troop deployments along the border. After weeks of diplomatic talks, both sides reached an agreement on October 21 to disengage partially and resume limited patrolling. Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized that this disengagement allows for a return to previous patrolling routines, a carefully structured approach aimed at reducing friction along the LAC, even as full resolution remains elusive.
A Step Toward Stability on the Border
The symbolic exchange of sweets on Diwali and recent disengagement efforts reflect a cautious yet positive shift toward reducing tensions along the India-China border. While significant challenges remain in disputed areas, recent developments offer hope for lasting peace and cooperation between the two neighboring nations.
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