The Indian Army on Monday dismissed reports claiming that Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) troops had recently encroached into parts of Arunachal Pradesh, saying the allegations were incorrect and had no factual basis. The clarification came after several media reports suggested that Chinese forces had occupied areas in the Upper Subansiri district of the northeastern state.
In an official statement, the Army said it had taken note of the reports circulating in the media but categorically denied any recent encroachment by Chinese troops in the region. According to the Army, the claims are not supported by facts.
The controversy emerged after reports cited concerns raised by members of the Nah tribal community, who alleged that areas traditionally used by them for grazing cattle and hunting had become inaccessible over the past few years. Community representatives claimed that several locations near the border had effectively come under Chinese control since 2020, making it difficult for villagers to continue their traditional activities.
Despite expressing these concerns, members of the Nah Welfare Society also stated that they continue to have confidence in the Indian Army, acknowledging its long-standing role in protecting the border region and safeguarding local communities.
The issue has drawn attention because of the continuing sensitivity along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) following the violent Galwan Valley clash in June 2020, in which 20 Indian soldiers lost their lives. China also suffered casualties during the confrontation, although Beijing has never officially disclosed the number of its personnel killed.
Since the Galwan incident, India and China have held multiple rounds of diplomatic and military discussions to reduce tensions and maintain peace along the disputed border. Both sides have continued engagement through regular meetings at various levels to prevent misunderstandings and avoid escalation.
Speaking on Monday, outgoing Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi said the two militaries have conducted more than 1,100 ground-level interactions aimed at maintaining stability along the Line of Actual Control.
He said the security situation on the border remains stable and emphasised that continuous military engagement has played an important role in preserving peace in the region. At the same time, he reiterated that the Indian Army remains fully prepared to defend the country’s territorial integrity and national interests.
According to the Army Chief, India will continue to pursue dialogue with China while maintaining a strong and vigilant military posture along the border to ensure that peace is backed by adequate preparedness and operational capability.
