The disengagement process between Indian and Chinese forces in the Depsang and Demchok regions of eastern Ladakh has been confirmed as successfully completed by sources from the Indian Army. This resolution comes after ongoing tensions that have been present since the Galwan Valley clash in 2020.
Disengagement between India and China in Depsang and Demchok completed. Coordinated patrolling to start soon by both sides. Ground commanders will continue to hold talks. Exchange of sweets on Diwali to happen tomorrow: Indian Army sources pic.twitter.com/RpzGUpKjyG
---Advertisement---— ANI (@ANI) October 30, 2024
Pathway for Routine Patrolling
Defence sources reported that the disengagement involved the withdrawal of troops, tents, and temporary structures from disputed areas. With this process now finalized, both sides are set to resume routine patrolling in the region. Coordinated patrolling is expected to begin shortly, with discussions among ground-level commanders—brigadiers and lower ranks—continuing to determine specific protocols and ensure stability in these sensitive border areas.
Verification Processes Underway
The verification of disengagement is actively being conducted, with both countries using aerial and ground inspections to confirm the complete removal of temporary installations and troop withdrawals. To commemorate this positive step toward de-escalation, the Indian Army announced that both nations would exchange sweets on Diwali, scheduled for October 31.
Also Read: Maharashtra Assembly Election: BJP To Contest 148 Seats, Congress 103 As Nominations Close
Local Military Commanders Collaborate
On October 30, local military commanders from India and China met at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Depsang and Demchok to finalize the disengagement efforts. This meeting aimed to confirm the removal of temporary structures and vehicles, thereby enabling the return to regular patrolling operations.
Aerial Verification Completed
As part of a phased disengagement strategy, successful aerial verification was carried out over Depsang on Tuesday. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) were deployed to ensure that temporary installations were dismantled and that troops had withdrawn as planned. However, adverse weather conditions in Demchok delayed similar verification efforts, although officials anticipate completion soon.
Significant Progress Achieved
By the evening of October 29, substantial progress was noted, with tents, temporary structures, and vehicles entirely removed from both Depsang and Demchok. The careful execution of simultaneous disengagement and verification procedures marks a crucial step toward restoring stability along this section of the LAC.
On October 21, India announced that it had reached an agreement with China on patrolling along the LAC, signifying a breakthrough in the military standoff that has endured since the deadly clashes in June 2020 at Galwan. This development underscores the ongoing efforts to enhance stability and foster communication between the two countries.
