Satellite Images Confirm Initial India-China Troop Disengagement in Ladakh
New satellite images have confirmed the initial stages of disengagement between Indian and Chinese troops in the Depsang and Demchok regions of Eastern Ladakh.
These developments follow the recent announcement of a new patrolling arrangement aimed at easing tensions in the disputed area. The images, taken on Friday and provided by US-based Maxar Technologies, show a reduction in military structures at several locations, signaling progress in ending the standoff that has persisted since 2020.
The satellite images reveal the dismantling of large shelters and military outposts that had been erected by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) during the standoff. In Depsang, near Patrol Point 10, a large structure that had been present for years was removed, as seen in comparison between images from August and Friday. Similarly, structures in Demchok were taken down, as confirmed by comparing images from October 9 and October 25.
Signs of De-Escalation Amid Remaining Challenges
While the dismantling of structures suggests the disengagement is moving forward, substantial PLA infrastructure remains in the region, underscoring the scale of China’s presence during the standoff. Officials expect the disengagement process to be fully completed in the coming days.
The standoff between India and China began in May 2020, culminating in a violent clash in the Galwan Valley in June of the same year, leading to casualties on both sides. Since then, multiple rounds of military talks have resulted in partial troop withdrawals and the creation of buffer zones in areas like Galwan, Pangong Tso, and Gogra-Hot Springs. However, experts warn that these buffer zones may inadvertently benefit Chinese territorial claims by limiting Indian patrolling in the region.
Diplomatic Discussions at the BRICS Summit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed the ongoing disengagement efforts during the BRICS summit in Russia, marking their first bilateral meeting since 2019. The disengagement process is seen as a step toward stabilizing relations between the two nations, though challenges remain as both sides work to resolve their long-standing border disputes.
