Border tensions continue despite India-China military talks

Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Director General Shatrujeet Singh Kapur has confirmed that face-offs between Indian and Chinese forces at several locations in Arunachal Pradesh are continuing. His remarks come a month after India and China held Corps Commander-level talks amid reports of tension in the Taksing area of Upper Subansiri district.

Speaking at the Himveer Samman Samaroh in Rajasthan on Thursday, Kapur praised the role of newly established Shaurya Commando teams in handling the situation. He said the ITBP was developing specialised high-altitude combat capabilities, with plans to establish dedicated commando units for mountain operations.

Kapur also stressed the need to modernise the force, highlighting the growing importance of drones and anti-drone systems. He said the ITBP had allocated a significant portion of its modernisation funds to drone technology, pilot training and in-house drone production. He also pointed to the need to replace ageing weapons and improve operational preparedness along the border.

Responding to the developments, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said disturbances along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) occur when Chinese forces deviate from established patrolling patterns. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said both countries continue to use existing diplomatic and military mechanisms to resolve outstanding issues and prevent misunderstandings.

Congress questions government over border security

The Congress party demanded immediate clarification from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah regarding the continuing face-offs. It questioned whether Indian troops had lost access to certain patrolling areas and criticised the government for not providing sufficient information about the situation.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also raised concerns about India's trade dependence on China and the outcomes of repeated diplomatic engagements between the two countries. He called for greater accountability on national security and urged the government to take Parliament and the public into confidence.

India and China held Corps Commander-level talks in September at the Wacha-Damai border meeting point in Arunachal Pradesh. Indian troops reportedly remain deployed in significant numbers to prevent further escalation.

The MEA reiterated that maintaining peace and tranquillity along the border is essential for improving bilateral relations.