India's Army Chief Declares Pakistan-China Pact on Shaksgam Valley Illegal and Unacceptable

India's Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi asserts that the 1963 agreement between Pakistan and China regarding Shaksgam Valley is illegal, reaffirming India's territorial claims and rejecting ongoing projects in the region.

India's Army Chief, Gen Upendra Dwivedi, stated that the 1963 agreement between Pakistan and China regarding Shaksgam Valley is considered illegal by India. His remarks came shortly after India's external affairs ministry criticised China's infrastructure projects in the region, asserting India's right to protect its interests as the area is Indian territory.

India's Stance on Shaksgam Valley

In 1963, Pakistan ceded 5,180 square kilometres of Indian land in Shaksgam Valley to China. Gen Dwivedi emphasised India's disapproval of any activities in the valley. He reiterated that the Ministry of External Affairs has clearly stated this position. "We don't approve of any activity in the valley," he said.

The Army Chief also mentioned that India does not accept the joint statement issued by China regarding CPEC 2.0. He described it as an illegal action by both nations. India has consistently opposed the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which traverses through Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.

China's Response and India's Measures

Following India's comments, China reaffirmed its territorial claims over Shaksgam Valley on Monday. Beijing maintained that its infrastructure projects in the area are legitimate. The external affairs ministry responded by stating, "We have consistently protested with the Chinese side against attempts to alter the ground reality in Shaksgam Valley."

The ministry further asserted India's right to take necessary measures to safeguard its interests. This ongoing dispute highlights the tensions between India and China over territorial claims and development projects in contested regions.

Situation Along the Line of Actual Control

Gen Dwivedi also addressed the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, describing it as stable but requiring constant vigilance. He noted that high-level interactions and confidence-building measures are gradually normalising conditions along the northern borders.

"Apex-level interactions, renewed contact and confidence-building measures are contributing to gradual normalisation of the situation," he said. These efforts have facilitated activities like grazing and hydrotherapy camps along the LAC.

The Army Chief highlighted India's strategic focus on maintaining a balanced and robust deployment along the LAC. He mentioned that capability development and infrastructure enhancement are progressing through a comprehensive government approach.

India remains committed to safeguarding its territorial integrity while addressing challenges posed by neighbouring countries' actions in disputed areas. The government continues to monitor developments closely and take appropriate measures to protect national interests.

With inputs from PTI