In a significant diplomatic and military breakthrough, India and China have commenced the dismantling of 2020 border structures
First Steps Toward Peace Along the LAC
The longstanding military standoff between India and China in eastern Ladakh has entered a new chapter of resolution, as both nations began dismantling temporary structures along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Following an agreement reached on October 21, Indian and Chinese troops are pulling back from several friction points, with each side dismantling tents and fortifications set up since tensions began in 2020. India’s Defense Ministry announced the agreement to restore traditional patrolling rights, marking a major de-escalation after years of confrontation along this sensitive border.
Structures Dismantled in Key Disputed Zones
In the first signs of disengagement, sources reported the removal of temporary posts and camps at strategic points, including Depsang and Demchok, where tensions had been highest. Indian troops are moving west of the Charding Nala while Chinese troops withdraw to the east, creating a buffer to ensure peace along the LAC. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has stated that this process is grounded in “equal and mutual security,” and it underscores both countries’ shared commitment to reducing conflict. These early steps are expected to allow for traditional patrolling by each side, a core part of the agreement.
Breakthrough After Tactical Commander Meetings
Within hours of the agreement, local commanders on both sides convened to start implementing the terms on the ground. This included the gradual dismantling of about 10 to 12 structures and a reduction in military vehicles, a key indicator of de-escalation. Sources clarified that removing these temporary obstructions will soon allow patrolling to resume, signalling a shift back to the status quo. Once structures are fully dismantled, both sides are expected to conduct joint ground verifications, according to local commanders who have been entrusted with executing these delicate processes with precision.
Controlled Withdrawal to Minimize Conflict Risks
The removal of structures is being done in a “controlled manner,” according to military sources, to avoid any miscommunication or accidental provocations. It is estimated that the full dismantling and troop pullback process will take about a week, after which both Indian and Chinese commanders will jointly inspect the region to confirm complete compliance with the agreed terms. Under the October 21 “patrolling arrangements,” Chinese troops have also committed not to obstruct Indian soldiers at Depsang’s “Bottleneck” area, an 18-km stretch that India considers its own territory and which has been a flashpoint for prior confrontations.
Diplomatic Endorsement and BRICS Summit Meeting
The path to this historic agreement included strategic dialogue at the highest levels. During the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met on the sidelines to discuss the LAC situation. The leaders jointly endorsed the disengagement plan, signaling their mutual dedication to stabilizing relations and preventing future flare-ups. According to Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, PM Modi emphasized that territorial differences should not disrupt “peace and tranquility” along the border. Both leaders also advocated for the reactivation of diplomatic channels, reinforcing bilateral dialogue mechanisms stalled since the 2020 Galwan Valley clash.
High-Level Communication Channels Remain Active
In line with the phased withdrawal plan, military officials from both nations have maintained steady communication through direct calls and video monitoring to ensure transparency and accountability in the process. Videos documenting troop movement in Demchok and Depsang are being exchanged to build trust and foster a mutual commitment to peace. This layer of monitoring is expected to help solidify a sustained de-escalation, demonstrating the intent of both nations to maintain calm along the LAC.
A New Era of Patrolling and Ground-Level Cooperation
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh recently underscored the importance of restoring the “ground situation” at an event in New Delhi. He noted that resuming traditional patrolling is a central part of the agreement, reflecting a commitment to security and cooperation. The minister also highlighted the need for balanced and equitable security measures, a principle echoed in the new arrangement. With each side returning to their previous positions, the process sets the stage for resuming customary grazing and patrolling rights, which had been disrupted since 2020.
A Framework for Peace and Trust Moving Forward
As India and China work to stabilize relations along the LAC, the focus remains on mutual security, transparency, and avoiding future escalation. PM Modi and President Xi’s commitment to boundary dialogue signals a strong diplomatic push to manage differences peacefully. Foreign Secretary Misri emphasized the critical role of special representatives in ensuring that both sides adhere to peaceful resolutions and engage in constructive dialogue, setting the tone for ongoing cooperation.
With the current disengagement unfolding smoothly, this effort marks a major stride toward rebuilding trust between the two nations. It underscores that diplomacy, when backed by consistent communication and cooperation, remains a potent tool for resolving even the most protracted conflicts.
(With inputs from agencies)
