Army on Chinese incursions: Situation in Ladakh under control

Describing the situation along the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh as "well under control", a top army commander on Friday said the force is committed to launch "intelligence specific and people friendly" operations to counter the ongoing proxy war in Jammu and Kashmir.

"To counter the ongoing proxy war, we are committed to launch intelligence specific and people friendly operations as also concerted counter-infiltration operations along the Line of Control," General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Northern Command Lt-Gen Sanjiv Chachra said in his address at the Kargil War Memorial on the 14th anniversary of Operation Vijay in Drass, Jammu and Kashmir. He said the recent surge in militant activities indicate an attempt to "revive terrorism" in the state.

"There is an increase in ceasefire violations, additional infiltrations which indicate a determined attempt as also the rising frustration in the perpetrators of the proxy war," he said, adding, "It also indicate that the terrorist infrastructure that has been put in place by our adversary across the border is still intact and there has been no change in his intention."

Ruling out repetition of the 1999 situation when Pakistani troops intruded into the Indian territory, the army commander said, "We have significantly strengthened our positions in western Ladakh since 1999 and also enhanced our surveillance and response capabilities. We are well prepared not only to deny our adversary any opportunity but also to respond swiftly. Our soldier remain guardians of the northern frontier to ensure that the safety and security of the nation remains well protected," he said.

"While there have been some reports of incidents along the LAC with China, I wish to assure that our existing border management procedure and mechanisms with the Chinese are well in place," Lt-Gen Chachra said, adding, "We have hot lines, flag meetings and border personnel meetings that enable us to resolve issues peacefully. The border situation is well under control."

He said the contribution of troops deployed in Jammu and Kashmir is selfless, dedicated and nationalistic. "I am positive that history will record our endeavours for the sake of the people and we are not alone in these efforts. It is in total consonance with the civil administration, Central and State police forces and the state government. It is this collective effort that brings peace and tranquility in a state which has long been in turmoil," he added.