No Territory Lost: Former J&K DGP SP Vaid Defends ITBP Chief's China Remarks
Former DGP SP Vaid defends ITBP DG Shatrujeet Kapoor, stating that 'face-offs' with China do not mean territory has been occupied.
Former Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) SP Vaid has stepped into the political fray to clarify the statements made by the Director General of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Shatrujeet Kapoor. Addressing the growing controversy, Vaid asserted that the ITBP DG's mention of ITBP DG China face-offs did not imply that any Indian territory has been occupied by China.
Clarifying the Meaning of 'Face-Offs'
Speaking to ANI, SP Vaid explained that the term "face-off" is often misunderstood in political discourse. According to the former DGP, the ITBP chief was simply highlighting the tense nature of interactions in certain border areas, which indicates a lack of friendly relations rather than a loss of land.
Vaid described these encounters as involving verbal abuse, shoving, and pushing, characterizing them as typical behavior for China. He emphasized that these frictions do not equate to an active armed conflict, but rather a pattern of bullying that requires a firm response.
"The DG of the ITBP is simply stating that there have been 'face-offs' with China in certain areas. This does not mean that an armed conflict is taking place... Shatrujit Kapoor did not suggest that China has occupied any territory, contrary to the uproar being raised by the Congress."
Dealing with a 'Bully'
Vaid did not mince words regarding China's intentions, stating clearly that Beijing has its sights set on Arunachal Pradesh. He pointed to China's habit of renaming places as evidence of their territorial ambitions. He argued that the only way to deal with such "bullying" is to respond in the same language.
Drawing a parallel to previous clashes, Vaid referenced the situation in Ladakh. He noted that while India suffered losses, including the loss of a commanding officer, Babu Ram and other soldiers, the response was decisive. He mentioned reports suggesting that over 40 Chinese personnel were killed during those engagements, reinforcing his point that a bully must be countered with similar tactics.
The Political Firestorm
These clarifications come after Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge launched a scathing attack on the central government, demanding that Prime Minister Narendra Modi "come clean" regarding the situation in Arunachal Pradesh. Kharge expressed alarm over the continuing PLA face-offs, specifically mentioning reports of Chinese incursions near Taksing in August.
Kharge's Key Demands:
- Accountability: Questioning why the nation is being kept in the dark despite high-level Corps Commander talks at Wacha–Damai.
- Patrolling Rights: Asking whether India's patrolling access has been compromised and if pre-May 2020 rights have been restored.
- Diplomatic Results: Questioning the tangible outcomes of numerous Modi-Xi meetings, Special Representatives' rounds involving NSA Ajit Doval, and various summits like SCO and BRICS.
The Congress leader criticized what he termed "Hugplomacy" and diplomatic photo opportunities, insisting that national security demands transparency in Parliament rather than attacks on the Opposition.
Diplomatic Efforts Continue
Despite the political tension, diplomatic channels remain active. On August 25, the 25th Round of Talks between the Special Representatives (SR) of India and China took place in Beijing. During these discussions, both nations reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace and tranquility in border areas and working toward a healthy development of bilateral relations, following the guidance of their respective leaders.