Chinese transgression in Ladakh: Indian troops foil incursion attempt
What's the story
Indian and Chinese troops were engaged in a slightly violent quarrel at Ladakh as India celebrated its 71st Independence Day.
According to reports, Indian troops clashed with the People's Liberation Army, who tried to transgress into Ladakh, at the Pangong Tso lake at the border.
The scuffle comes amid heightened tension around the ongoing Doklam standoff and reportedly caused minor injuries on both sides.
Information
Context: Doklam standoff
Indian and Chinese troops have been engaged in a standoff along the LAC in the Doklam region, near the Sikkim border. Both have accused each other of transgressing into the other's territory and have mobilized troops in mass numbers.
What transpired?
Indian troops thwart Chinese schemes
According to a PTI report, PLA troops attempted two incursions on August 15, between 6 am and 9 am, at the Finger Four and Finger Five areas.
Chinese troops then pelted stones at the Indian side, which formed a chain to stop their advancement. India retaliated promptly.
The standoff which lasted for 30 minutes concluded as both sides stepped back after a customary banner ceremony.
About
Pangong Tso: A flashpoint
Pangong Tso a brackish water lake located in the Eastern sector of the LAC, often witnesses tense Sino-Indian confrontations.
While India claims it as its own, China staked claimed it as part of Aksai Chin in the 90s, after it built a track reaching its southern bank.
India further intercepted Chinese troops several times in 2013 following the three-week standoff at the Depsang Plains.
Conclusion
What does this mean?
With the latest incident in Ladakh, it seems as if the PLA if pushing in on the Western sector of LAC, after Doklam and the Uttarakhand transgression last month.
According to former Northern Army Commander B S Jaswal, China realizes that war may not be the best option and is trying to push in and occupy 'vulnerable and disputed areas'.