Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Addresses the Parliament After Tawang Clash

Defence Minister Rajanth Singh addressed the parliament on December 13 and said that on December 9, the PLA troops tried to transgress the LAC in Yangtse area of Tawang Sector and unilaterally change the status quo. He said, “The Chinese attempt was contested by our troops in a firm and resolute manner.  The ensuing face-off led to a physical scuffle in which the Indian Army bravely prevented the PLA from transgressing into our territory and compelled them to return to their posts. The scuffle led to injuries to a few personnel on both sides. I wish to share with this House that there are no fatalities or serious casualties on our side.”

He added that timely intervention of the Indian military commanders ensured that the PLA soldiers went back to their locations. As a follow-up of the incident, local commander in the area held a Flag Meeting with his counterpart on December 11 to discuss the issue in accordance with the established mechanisms.

“The Chinese side was asked to refrain from such actions and maintain peace and tranquility along the border. The issue has also been taken up with the Chinese side through diplomatic channels,” he said.

Defence Minister further assured the House that the Indian forces were committed to protecting India’s territorial integrity and would continue to thwart any attempt made on it and that he was confident that the House would stand united in support of the soldiers in their effort.