ITBP Chief Says India-China Tensions Continue in Arunachal Pradesh

Tensions between Indian and Chinese troops remain at some points along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Arunachal Pradesh, according to Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Director General Shatrujeet Kapoor. He said face-offs and tense situations had developed at several locations in recent months.

The areas of Asaphila and Maja in Upper Subansiri district have reportedly remained tense since late July. India has also increased its deployment along the border.

Kapoor made these remarks during the Himveer Samman ceremony at the ITBP Central Training College in Alwar, Rajasthan.

Tensions Continue Despite High-Level Talks

Kapoor said tensions had continued despite three rounds of high-level engagement between India and China after July. These included talks under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC), a meeting between the two countries’ special representatives, and Corps Commander-level discussions.

He also highlighted the growing role of drones in modern warfare. The ITBP is working to develop drone technology and strengthen its ability to counter hostile drones. The force is also building underground shelters to protect its resources near the LAC.

Congress Questions the Government

Congress MP Jairam Ramesh accused the government of remaining silent about the reported face-offs. In a post on X, he referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statement on China in June 2020 and questioned the government’s approach towards Beijing.

Ramesh also praised the ITBP personnel for their handling of the recent face-offs, while criticising what he described as the government’s concessions to China.

Why the 2020 Galwan Clash Still Matters

The border tensions bring back memories of the deadly clash in the Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh on 15 June 2020, in which 20 Indian soldiers lost their lives. The incident sharply worsened relations between India and China and led to a major military build-up along the border.

Both countries deployed additional troops in the region as tensions rose. The border dispute remains unresolved, although military and diplomatic talks have continued.

China’s Claims Over Arunachal Pradesh

India and China have a long-running border dispute over Arunachal Pradesh. China claims parts of the state and refers to it as “Zangnan”, meaning “southern Tibet”. Since 2017, Beijing has repeatedly issued Chinese names for places in the state.

India has rejected these moves, maintaining that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of the country. The latest reported face-offs underline that tensions along the border remain a concern despite continued diplomatic engagement.