India Rejects China's Sovereignty Claims, Says Beijing Illegally Occupies J&K, Ladakh
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Security
Why in news
India has firmly rejected China's assertions on sovereignty, stating that Beijing has been illegally occupying Indian territories in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh since 1963. The MEA spokesperson reiterated that India respects China's sovereignty but China has violated India's territorial integrity.
Background
The border dispute between India and China in the western sector, including Aksai Chin, dates back to the 1950s. China claims around 90,000 sq km in the Union Territory of Ladakh, while India claims the Aksai Chin region under its control. The 1962 war and subsequent agreements have not resolved the issue.
Key facts
India rejected China's assertions on sovereignty issues, stating that Beijing has illegally occupied parts of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh since 1963.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India respects China's sovereignty and does not violate it.
India's rights over the occupied territories have been officially acknowledged even by China, according to the MEA.
The statement was made in response to China's claims on sovereignty issues.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's remarks were cited by the MEA spokesperson.
Prelims pointers
- Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)
- Jammu and Kashmir
- Ladakh
- 1963 - year of alleged illegal occupation
- Aksai Chin - disputed region
Mains angles
- Discuss the historical and legal aspects of India-China border dispute in the western sector.
- Critically examine India's diplomatic response to China's territorial claims and its impact on bilateral relations.
- Analyze the role of international law in resolving border disputes with reference to India-China boundary issue.