Arunachal Pradesh: CM Pema Khandu denies reports of Chinese incursion
Itanagar, August 7
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday denied the reports of a Chinese incursion in the state.
CM Pema Khandu told reporters that he would speak to the locals and the Indian Army on the allegations of an incursion by China's People's Liberation Army (PLA).
"We don't think there was an incursion as the Indian Army personnel are deployed and maintaining the territory. I have also urged the local tribes; I will hear them and also talk to the army," he said.
His remarks come amid social media reports of an incursion in Arunachal Pradesh along the LAC.
Last month, Arunachal Pradesh Home Minister Mama Natung had refuted claims of Chinese encroachment in the State as "just rumours", urging the media to verify before releasing such statements in the public domain.
"Regarding the Chinese encroachment claims being shown on social media, I would request media friends to verify whether such statements are true or not. The reality is that there is no Chinese encroachment in Arunachal Pradesh. Our soldiers are standing 24/7 on the borders to protect Mother India. I can say with confidence that China does not dare to cross even one inch of Indian territory. These claims are just rumours and should not be believed. The Indian government has deployed our brave soldiers, and the entire nation stands with them. We are ready to make any sacrifice for the protection of our land," he said.
In June, the Indian Army also rebutted reports in a section of the media alleging encroachment by the Chinese PLA and setting up camps in Arunachal Pradesh and termed them "incorrect and without basis".
"We have seen some media reports alleging recent encroachment by Chinese PLA and setting up of camps in Arunachal Pradesh. These reports are incorrect and without any basis," the Indian Army said.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The Home Minister's statement was very strong and clear. It's good that the government is not letting these rumours create panic. Our soldiers are our real heroes.
Social media rumours can create unnecessary tension. Glad the CM and Army are handling this with maturity. But we must remain vigilant along the border.
Proud of our armed forces. The way they guard our borders in such tough terrains is commendable. This news is a reminder that we need to support our soldiers more.
One thing is clear - the government should also take action against those spreading rumours on social media. Fake news is as dangerous as any enemy action.
The local tribes' perspective is important too. Good that CM is consulting them. Such matters need careful handling, not just political statements.
This is exactly how border issues should be handled - through verification and dialogue. India's stance has always been clear on its borders.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.