Indian Troops Resume Patrolling in Demchok Post-Disengagement, Reflecting Easing Tensions with China

In a recent development, Indian troops have resumed coordinated patrolling in the sensitive Demchok area of eastern Ladakh following a disengagement process at two critical friction points along the Line of Actual Control (LAC)—Demchok and Depsang Plains. The resumption began on Friday and will soon extend to Depsang Plains as part of an ongoing peace initiative, according to Indian Army sources.

This renewed patrolling arrangement aligns with an agreement between India and China, formalized on October 21, just ahead of a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping at the BRICS Summit in Russia. Since the detection of Chinese incursions in May 2020, eastern Ladakh has been a flashpoint in India-China relations, leading to a prolonged and tense military standoff.

In a goodwill gesture on Diwali, troops from both sides exchanged sweets at border points, signaling a shift toward cooperation. Previously, Chinese forces restricted Indian access to several patrolling points in the Depsang Plains and occupied the Charding Nullah area in Demchok. Local commander-level discussions involving Brigadier ranks and lower-ranking officers are ongoing to sustain the disengagement momentum, reflecting gradual steps toward de-escalation.

The current disengagement marks the first phase in a comprehensive plan comprising disengagement, de-escalation, and troop de-induction. Initial moves included the removal of temporary structures, which is a significant step in easing longstanding tensions in this region. Although China had earlier shown reluctance to negotiate on Demchok and Depsang, recent talks indicate a mutual willingness to address these contentious areas.

In Beijing, a spokesperson for the Chinese military noted positive progress on the disengagement process, although he refrained from confirming the full completion. Colonel Zhang called for a strategic approach to bilateral relations, emphasizing the need for both countries to manage their differences in a manner that does not strain their overall relationship.

This step is seen as a positive movement in managing India-China relations, with both sides now working toward preventing further escalations and maintaining stability along the border.