India asks China to stop activities in Azad Kashmir

China is undertaking infrastructure projects in Azad Kashmir, hence, Chinese soldiers are deployed.


Web Desk March 18, 2013
File photo of Defence Minister A K Antony. PHOTO: AFP/ FILE

NEW DEHLI: The Indian government on Monday asked China to refrain from carrying out activities in Azad Kashmir, Press Trust of India reported.

The Defence Minister for India AK Antony expressed India’s reservations, regarding China’s activities in Azad Kashmir, while speaking in the Lok Sabha (Indian Parliament) today.

"Government is aware of China undertaking infrastructure projects in PoK [Azad Kashmir] which are being executed by Chinese civil companies,” Antony said in reference to the alleged presence of Chinese soldiers in Azad Kashmir.

He further said that China was asked to cease these activities.

He also spoke about the reported terrorist attacks in Jammu Kashmir last year, claiming that one army personnel lost his life in the attacks.

Antony emphasised that deployment of troops and recently installed surveillance equipment will help counter future attacks. He also said, “Troops are adequately trained and equipped to prevent such incidents."

He also expressed confidence on the security drills and the efforts of the intelligence agencies.

Demilitarise Siachen?

In response to a question about army persons losing lives at Siachen, Antony revealed that a total of 18 soldiers had lost their lives since 2010 due to natural hazards.

"Any development/redeployment of troops in the area are contingent upon the threat perception, ground situation, operational and strategic consideration,” Antony further explained the negotiations with Pakistan regarding demilitarisation of Siachen.

Last year, the Pakistan had indicated a willingness to demilitarise the worlds highest border post citing the immense costs at maintaining them in therms of human losses and resources.

COMMENTS (33)

goose | 11 years ago | Reply

@Romm: You mean to say that no women get raped in Pakistan - 'innocent' or otherwise?

Enlightened | 11 years ago | Reply

@Nobody: Generally agree with your comments. India has never tried to provoke China which is the right policy to deal with a neighbour who is trying to be at par with USA. Let me put you wiser that India as compared to 1962 is much stronger and with development of nuclear capable missiles range of 5000 km and above, raising several infantry divisions and development of infrastructure of roads and airfields along the China border, has now developed the military capability of striking deep inside their territory which our Chinese friends are quite aware of. I am writing this with some authenticity as the area and developments made are well known to me. Notwithstanding above, China nor India would be interested to enter into conflict as both countries trade amounts to 70 billion dollars today which is likely to cross 100 billions by 2015. As a testimony to my comments, read the statement made by the new Chinese President Xi yesterday in which he has outlined a five point charter to improve relations with India, categorically stating that the border problem shall be kept on the back burner to achieve the same. Pakistan regarding Kashmir problem needs to do the same with India which would be beneficial for both countries but your military may not be interested. Regards

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