Indian Army Chief claims Chinese aggression a "conspiracy to change status quo"

Speaking at an event marking Army Day on Friday, Indian Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane said that Chinese aggression is a "conspiracy to unilaterally change status quo." Naravane added that the sacrifices of those killed in Galwan in June 2020 won't go to waste.

"Regarding conspiracy to unilaterally change status quo on borders, a befitting reply was given. I want to assure the country that sacrifice of Bravehearts of Galwan would not go waste," he said referring to the ongoing tension with China on northern borders. The clash at Galwan valley on June 15th had left 20 Indian soldiers dead. The Chinese never revealed their casualties. The Army Chief stressed that no can change the country's sovereignty or territorial integrity. "Nobody can test our patience," he added.

Naravane clarified that India is seeking to resolve the tension through dialogue and that eight rounds of negotiations have taken place between top military commanders.

The India and China standoff, which started in May 2020 with skirmishes in Pangong Lake that left several injured on both sides, has now entered its ninth month. Since, there has been heavy deployment of troops, artillery guns, tanks and armoured vehicles close by.

Despite the eight rounds of Corps Commander level talks, the highest level of military dialogue, the deadlock in Ladakh continues as no solutions have been arrived at.

Recognizing the valour of to those killed in action, Naravane said, "We will always remember those who have sacrificed their lives. We want to tell their families we will always stand by them."

Talking about threats on the borders shared with Pakistan, the Army Chief claimed that there has been a 40% increase in ceasefire violations at the Line of Control (LoC) by Pak forces. He also claimed that 300-400 terrorists are in launch pads across the LoC ready to infiltrate. He further claimed that the security forces killed over 200 terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir.

"Our forces' morale is very high and we are ready for any eventuality," the Army chief added.