‘Galwan Valley Located on Our Side of LAC’: China Amid Tensions

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    After Prime Minister Narendra Modi said there are no foreign incursions into India, China has once again claimed that Galwan valley of Ladakh union territory is located on the Chinese side of the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

    In an official statement on the step-by-step account of the Galwan face-off where 20 Indian soldiers were killed, China's foreign ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian has said the Galwan valley is located on the Chinese side of the LAC in the west section of the China-India boundary.

    • After an all party meet on Friday, 19 June, PM Modi said China did not cross border or take over any Indian post
    • The meeting was attended by at least 20 parties where Congress leader Soni Gandhi raised questions on intelligence failure
    • TMC’s Mamata Banerjee and JDU’s Nitish Kumar urged for unity among parties and suggested blocking China out of India’s infrastructure and telecom sectors
    • US Secretary Mike Pompeo, on Friday, called China a ‘rogue actor’ and blamed the PLA for escalating tensions with India
    • Eighteen soldiers are at a hospital in Leh, while 58 others reportedly have minor injuries and are at various other hospitals

    Also Read: No Intel Failure, China Didn’t Cross Border: PM in All Party Meet

    China Foreign Ministry Gives 'Step-by-Step' Account of Galwan Clash

    Embassy of China in India put out a press note late on Friday night quoting China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian who gave a step-by-step account of the Galwan clash and elaborated China's position on settling this incident.

    "“Shockingly, on evening of June 15, India’s front-line troops, in violation of the agreement reached at the commander-level meeting, once again crossed LAC for deliberate provocation when the situation in Galwan Valley was already easing and even violently attacked the Chinese officers and soldiers who went there for negotiation, thus triggering fierce physical conflicts and causing casualties. The adventurous acts of Indian army have seriously undermined stability of border areas and threatened lives of Chinese personnel, violated agreements reached between the two countries (China and India) on the border issue and breached basic norms governing international relations. China has lodged solemn representations and strong protests to Indian side.”" - China Foreign Ministry Spokesperson

    The spokesperson further added, “ A 2nd commander-level meeting should happen as soon as possible to deal with situation on ground. The two sides agreed to handle in a just manner, the serious situation caused by Galwan Valley clash, observe agreement reached during commander-level meeting, cool down the situation on the ground as soon as possible, and uphold peace and tranquility of the border areas in accordance with bilateral agreements (between India and China) reached so far.”

    No Intel Failure, China Didn’t Cross Border: PM in All Party Meet

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, 19 June assured the Opposition that there was no intelligence failure that led to Galwan Valley clash and that the Indian forces have the capability that nobody can take an inch of land.

    “Neither have they intruded into our border, nor has any post been taken over by them (China). Twenty of our jawans were martyred, but those who dared Bharat Mata, they were taught a lesson,” PM Modi told the parties.

    “Whether it is deployment, action, counter-action...air, land or sea, whatever our armed forces have to do to protect our country they will do,” he added.

    “Today, we possess the capability that no one can eye even one inch of our land. India’s armed forces have the capability to move into multiple sectors at one go,” PM Modi said.

    “Till now, those who were never questioned or stopped, now our jawans stop them and warn them at multiple sectors,” he said.

    “In the past few years, to protect our borders, we have given importance to infrastructure development to protect our borders. The requirements of our armed forces, be it fighter planes, advanced helicopters, missile defence systems, that too is being given importance,” PM Modi said.

    PM Modi said that the country has immense faith in our soldiers and assured that the entire country is with them.

    Defence Minister Rajnath Singh assured the Opposition that "there was no intelligence failure".

    Southern Parties Pledge Unity, Communist Parties Talk Int’l Politics

    DMK's MK Stalin, as quoted by ANI, said “We are united when it comes to patriotism.” He also welcomed the recent statements by the PM on China issue.

    TRS Chief and Telangana CM KCR said that PM's clarity on Kashmir has angered China. He stressed that PM's call of Atmanirbhar Bharat has rattled China, as quoted by ANI.

    YSRCP’s Jagan Mohan Reddy said that thanks to the PM, India’s reputation has risen globally.

    “He has built key strategic partnerships across the world. You are our strength, Prime Minister. India has gained envy of many. They (China) are trying to destabilise India,” he reportedly said.

    CPI's D Raja, as quoted by ANI sources, said “we need to resist US efforts to drag us into their alliance.” CPI(M)'s Sitaram Yechury stressed on the principles of Panchsheel.

    Shiv Sena, BJD Demand Befitting Reply to China in All Party Meet

    BJD’s Pinaki Misra said that China has repeated history and once again in the cover of darkness and in a cowardly move, they attacked Indian soldiers who went with a message of peace.

    “The government will have to give a befitting reply, strong action will have to be initiated (against China). Whatever that action may be, the BJD will fully support the Government,” Misra said, as quoted by ANI sources.

    “Shri Naveen Patnaik ji's appeal to all parties is not to indulge in a blame game at this point. We must be in lockstep with the Government, the entire country needs to talk in one voice,” he added.

    Shiv Sena Chief and Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray said that China must be given a message that India is ‘mazboot’ and not ‘majboor.’

    “India wants peace but that doesn’t mean we are weak. China’s nature is betrayal. India is ‘Mazboot’ not ‘Majboor’. Our government has the ability to - ‘Aankhien Nikalkar Haath Me de dena’,” Thackeray said.

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    “We are all one. This is the feeling. We are with you, PM. We are with our forces and their families,” Thackeray added.

    TMC, JD(U), SP Demand Tough Responses to Chinese Investments, Trade in India in All Party Meet

    “China is not a democracy. They are a dictatorship. They can do what they feel. We, on the other hand, have to work together. India will win, China will lose. Speak with unity. Think with unity. Work with unity. We are solidly with the government,” she reportedly said.

    Mamata’s call for a dent on Chinese trade and investments in India was also echoed by several other leaders including Janata Dal United supremo and Bihar CM Nitish Kumar.

    “There is nationwide anger against China. There should be no differences among us. We are together,” he said, as quoted by ANI sources.

    “Parties should not show any disunity that can be explored by other nations. China’s stand on India is known. India wanted to give respect to China. But what did China do in 1962,” he reportedly said.

    “Goods from China flooding Indian markets have major problems. They’re plastic heavy, aren’t eco-friendly and they harm environment. Electronic waste associated with them is high. Chinese products don’t even last long. It ‘s our duty to be one and support the Centre,” Kumar reportedly said.

    Samajwadi Party's Ram Gopal Yadav said that the neeyat (intent) of Pakistan and China is not good and India must impose a 300% duty on Chinese goods.

    Communist Parties Talk Tough at All-Party Meet

    At the all party meeting with PM Modi, CPI's D Raja, as quoted by ANI sources said “we need to resist US efforts to drag us into their alliance.” CPI(M)'s Sitaram Yechury stressed on the principles of Panchsheel.

    Need to Respect Sensitive Matters: Sharad Pawar at All Party Meet

    Former Defence Minister of India and NCP Chief Sharad Pawar at the all-party meeting said that issues of whether soldiers carried arms or not are decided by international agreements and we need to respect such sensitive matters.

    PM's Stance on Kashmir has Angered China: TRS at All Party Meet

    TRS at the all party meet said that PM Modi’s clarity on Kashmir has angered China.

    “TRS Chief and Telangana CM KCR said that PM's clarity on Kashmir has angered China. PM's emphasis on Kashmir's development has also angered China. He stressed that PM's call of Atmanirbhar Bharat has rattled China,” he said, as quoted by ANI.

    We Are United: DMK at All Party Meet

    At the all party meeting with PM Modi over India-China border issues, DMK's MK Stalin, as quoted by ANI said “We are united when it comes to patriotism.”

    He also welcomed the recent statements by the PM on China issue.

    Infrastructural Work At Borders Must Continue: NPP at All-Party Meet

    At the all party meeting with PM Modi over India-China border issues, NPP's Conrad Sangma said that infrastructural work at the borders must not stop.

    “Infrastructure work along the border should not stop. China sponsored activities in Myanmar&Bangladesh is worrying. PM has been working on North East infra and it must go on,” he said, as quoted by ANI sources.

    Nation Need Assurance of Status Quo: Sonia Gandhi at All-Party Meet

    Congress interuim president Sonia Gandhi in the all party meet said that nation needs assurance of status quo amid India-China tensions.

    “Nation needs assurance that status quo ante restored. What is the current status of Mountain strike corps? Opposition parties should be briefed regularly,” she said, as quoted by ANI sources.

    “What date did Chinese troops intrude? When did the Govt find out about the transgressions? Does govt not get satellite pics? Did intelligence not report about unusual activity?” she reportedly said.

    MP CM Pays Tribute to Galwan Valley Martyr

    Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan paid tribute to Naik Deepak Kumar who lost his life in the Galwan Valley Clash. The CM also met the family members at their residence in Rewa.

    All-Party Meet Underway at PM's Residence

    All-party virtual meeting called by PM Modi to discuss India-China border situation, underway at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg. At least 20 parties are attending the meeting.

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    Galwan Martyr's Family Mourns His Death in Sangrur

    Family members of Sepoy Gurbinder who lost his life fighting back Chinese troops in Galwan Valley, mourned his death at the their residence in Sangrur. Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Sukhbir Singh Badal met them today.

    Galwan Valley Martyr Laid to Rest in Kandhamal

    Galwan Valley martyr Sepoy Chandrakanta Pradhan was laid to rest in Kandhamal.

    'Stand with the Country and Forces': Kejriwal

    Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal said that the Aaam Aadmi Party stands with the country and the armed forces despite not being invited to PM Modi’s all-party meet.

    “We stand with the country and our security forces. Strict action should be taken against China,” he said.

    AIMIM Not Invited to PM Modi's All Party Meet

    All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) MP Asaduddin Owaisi writes to PM Modi stating, "it is disappointing that my party was not invited to today's "All Party Meeting" on China border issue which was to be chaired by you."

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    Tributes Paid to Galwan Valley Martyr in Birbhum

    Tributes were paid in West Bengal’s Birbhum to Sepoy Rajesh Orang who lost his life in action in Galwan Valley.

    Bihar Village Pays Tribute to Galwan Martyr

    Crowds gather to pay last tributes to Sepoy Jai Kishor Singh at his native village in Vaishali.

    'Responsibility Entirely Lies With the Indian Side': China After Galwan Valley Clash

    China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian on Friday said that the right and wrong is very clear regarding the situation in Galwan Valley, and that "the responsibility entirely lies with the Indian side.

    "India and China are in talks to ease the situation," he was quoted as saying by ANI.

    'Govt Was Fast Asleep: Rahul Gandhi Slams Centre Over Galwan Clashes

    Continuing to slam the Centre over the Galwan clashes, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said on Friday that it is clear that the Chinese attack was "pre-planned", while the Government of India was "fast asleep and denied the problem."

    "The price was paid by our martyred jawans," he tweeted. Gandhi's comments came ahead of the all-party meeting called by PM Modi at 5 pm on Friday to discuss the situation in the India-China border areas.

    ‘Condolences to India for Lives Lost in China Confrontation’: US Secretary of State

    United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Thursday tweeted saying, "We extended our deepest condolences to the people of India for the lives lost as a result of the recent confrontation with China."

    "We will remember the soldiers' families, loved ones, and communities as they grieve," he added

    PLA Meticulously Planned Attack in Galwan: Report

    The Chinese PLA meticulously planned the attack on Indian troops in Galwan for at least two days, The Hindu reported quoting a senior government official said.

    The Chinese reportedly blocked small rivulets in heightened areas, releasing water at high speed when Indian Army personnel appeared at the disputed site.

    “The strong gush of water made the men lose balance. The Chinese charged, pushed the Army personnel and many fell into the Galwan river,” the official told The Hindu.

    World Not Interested in China, It's a Blessing for Indian Economy: Gadkari

    Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said that the world is distancing itself from Chin and that might be a boon for Indian economy.

    “Whole world is now not very much interested to deal with China, it's a blessing in disguise for Indian economy. A lot of people from different parts of the world want to deal with India, in this situation we need to increase our export and reduce import,” he said.

    MP CM Paid Tribute to Galwan Clash Martyr

    Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan paid tribute to Naik Deepak Kumar, Indian Army personnel who lost his life in the Galwan Valley clash. Chouhan announced ex gratia of Rs 1 crore, a house or plot, and a government job to one member of his family.

    18 Soldiers Injured in Galwan Clash at Leh Hospital, 58 in Other Hospitals: Report

    Among the soldiers injured in the Galwan Valley clash, no one is critical as of now, ANI reported quoting Indian Army sources. 18 soldiers are at our hospital in Leh, they will be out on duty in about 15 days. 58 soldiers are at other hospitals they should be back on duty within a week, ANI reported.

    58 personnel that are at other hospitals reportedly have minor injuries.

    Rahul Gandhi Writes Letters to Families of Martyrs

    Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has written letters expressing his condolences to the families of the 20 Indian Army personnel, who lost their lives in Galwan Valley Clash with China.

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    Jharkhand CM Pays Tribute to Galwan Martyr

    Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren and Governor Draupadi Murmu pay tributes to Sepoy Ganesh Hansda who lost his life in Galwan Valley.

    “In addition to compensation, we will give plot of land anywhere in state free of cost to bereaved families and request Centre to allot a petrol pump to them,” Soren said.

    Pak Will Try to Infiltrate Terrorists in J&K Amid Indo-China Tensions: J&K DGP

    J&K DGP Dilbagh singh on Thursday said that Pakistan will try to infiltrate terrorists in J&K amid Indo-China tensions.

    “In view of the Ladakh standoff, Pakistan will try to infiltrate more terrorists and also give impetus to violence in Kashmir valley and elsewhere,” Singh said at a meeting today held to review security scenario in the Union Terrotory.

    Wreath Laying Ceremony of Galwan Martyrs Held in Bhubaneshwar

    Wreath laying ceremony of Naib Subedar Nuduram Soren and Sepoy Chandrakanta Pradhan who lost their lives in Galwan Valley clash, was performed in Bhubaneswar. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik was also present at the ceremony.

    CM Nitish Pays Tribute to Soliders 

    Wreath laying ceremony of Havaldar Sunil Kumar, Sepoy Chandan Kumar, Sepoy Kundan Kumar, Sepoy Aman Kumar and Sepoy Jai Kishor Singh who lost their lives in Galwan Valley, is being performed in Patna, reports ANI. CM Nitish Kumar also paid tribute.

    Strongly Committed to Safeguarding India's Sovereignty: MEA

    The MEA on Thursday reiterated that India is strongly committed to protecting India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

    “While remain convinced of the need for maintenance of peace and tranquillity on border areas and resolution of differences through dialogue, at the same time as PM said yesterday we are strongly committed to ensuring India's sovereignty andterritorial integrity,”

    India Confirms Participation in RIC on 23 June

    India confirms participation in RIC (Russia-India-China) foreign ministers meeting on 23 June, the MEA said.

    Intel Alerted About PLA Movement in Ladakh in Feb-March

    Indian intelligence agencies had alerted movement of Chinese army in the eastern sector of Ladakh during February-March, The Economic Times reported. This was followed by multiple alerts but with more specific caution in April on Chinese soldiers planning a blockade to cut off access to areas patrolled by Indian forces according to ET.

    Major-Level talks Conclude, All Personnel Accounted For: Report

    Major General-level talks between India and China are over after more than six hours, ANI reported quoting sources. All the personnel who took part in the Galwan valley operations on 15-16 June are accounted for and no personnel are missing in action, ANI reported.

    Amid Row with China, IAF Pushes Proposal for Acquiring 33 New Russian Fighter Aircraft: Report

    Amid the ongoing row with China in Eastern Ladakh, the Indian Air Force has pushed a proposal to the government for acquiring 33 new fighter aircraft, including 21 MiGs from Russia, ANI reported.

    “The Air Force has been working on this plan for some time but they have now fast-tracked the process and the proposals expected to be worth over Rs 6,000 crore would be placed before the Defence Ministry for its final approval next week at a high-level meeting,” government sources told ANI.

    China Reiterates Blame on India

    China’s foreign Ministry on Thursday reiterated blame on India for the Galwan valley clash.

    “China has repeatedly said that the incident happened because the Indian front-line troops blatantly broke the consensus reached by the military chiefs of both sides,” Zhao Lijian, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson said.

    “Border situation is overall stable and controllable. We believe that under guidance of consensus reached by leaders of the two countries, the two sides can properly handle the situation, jointly safeguard peace and stability along the border and promote healthy and stable bilateral relations,” he said.

    Wreath-Laying Ceremony of Galwan Martyr Performed in Raipur

    Wreath-laying ceremony of Sepoy Ganesh Ram who lost his life in Galwan Valley clash was performed in Raipur. Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel and Former CM Raman Singh were present at the ceremony.

    Mortal remains Of Gurdaspur Jawan Reach Hometown

    Mortal remains of Indian Army's Naib Subedar Satnam Singh who lost his life fighting back Chinese troops in the Galwan Valley, brought to his native place in Gurdaspur.

    No Indian Troops Missing After Galwan Valley Clash: Army Confirms

    The Indian Army on Thursday confirmed that no personnel ar missing in action since the clash in Galwan Valley on Monday.

    “This is with reference to the article 'In China-India Clash, Two Nationalist Leaders with Little Room to Give' by New York Times dated 17 June 2020. It is clarified that there are no Indian troops Missing In Action,” the Indian Army said, as quoted by ANI.

    No Indian Troops Missing After Galwan Valley Clash: Report

    No Indian troops missing in action after violent clashes at Galwan Valley, ANI reports quoting Indian Army sources.

    Chinese PLA Establishes New Militia Units in Tibet

    Amid Indo-China row, the Chinese PLA has established five new militia units in Tibet, with members of these units involved in communication, mountaineering, expedition, rescue and one regionally renowned fight club, said a PLA Daily on Thursday.

    'India Mustn't Underestimate China's Firm Will to Safeguard Territorial Sovereignty': Foreign Ministry Spokesperson

    Days after the violent stand-off with India at the Galwan Valley in Ladakh, China on Thursday said, "India must not misjudge the current situation or underestimate China's firm will to safeguard its territorial sovereignty."

    The country's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying tweeted saying, "Indian front-line troops broke the consensus and crossed the Line of Actual Control, deliberately provoking and attacking Chinese officers and soldiers, thus triggering fierce physical conflicts and causing casualties."

    Some Indian Soldiers Still in Chinese Custody: Reports

    Days after the violent face-off erupted betweeen India and China in Ladakh’s Galwan Valley, defence analyst Ajai Shukla told NDTV that there are "at least 10 prisoners still in Chinese custody."

    "The Chinese are seeking to establish psychological dominance... There are severely injured Indians, at least 10 prisoners (are) still in Chinese custody."

    Meanwhile, The Hindu also reported on Wednesday that some soldiers are still unaccounted for and might be in the custody of the Chinese troops.

    Major General-Level Talks Being Held to Resolve Issues

    Talks at the level of major generals are being held on Thursday to resolve issues after the violent stand-off in Ladakh's Galwan Valley, ANI reported, quoting Army sources.

    Talks Between Major Generals of India, China Remain Inconclusive: Report

    Talks between Major Generals of India and China in Galwan Valley are over. The talks have remained inconclusive as no immediate disengagement or change in ground has taken place, ANI reported quoting sources. More talks will reportedly take place in the coming days.

    Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Meets PM Modi

    Defence Minister Rajnath Singh meets Prime Minister Narendra Modi amid India-China tensions.

    4 Army Personnel Who Were Critically Injured Now Stable

    Four Army personnel who were critically injured after the violent face-off with Chinese troops are stable now, ANI reported quoting Army sources.

    Odisha CM Patnaik Announces Ex Gratia for Families of Martyrs

    CM Naveen Patnaik has announced an exgratia of Rs 25 lakh each to the next of the kin of the two martyrs and conveyed his deep sympathies to the bereaved families

    Russian Ambassador Talks Future of RIC Amid Indo-China Tensions

    Nikolay Kudashev, Ambassador of Russia to India said that the existence of the RIC (Russia-India-China) is an indisputable reality

    “We welcome all steps aimed at de-escalation at the Line of Actual Control (LAC), including the conversation between the two Foreign Ministers, and remain optimistic,” he said.

    “The existence of the RIC (Russia-India-China) is an indisputable reality, firmly fixed on the world map. As for the current stage of the trilateral cooperation, there are no indications that it might be frozen,” he added.

    Rahul Gandhi Hits Out at Defence Minister Rajnath Singh

    Congress leader Rahul Gandhi took to twitter to retweet Rajnath Singh and asked why it took two days for the defence minister to offer condolences to the jawans martyred in Galwan valley.

    Stand By Country In This Crisis: Mamata Banerjee

    West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee said that she and her party stand by the country in this hour of crisis and support Centre's decision to call an all-party meet.

    “We are proud of our nation, we will fight this together. We stand with the nation at this hour,” she said.

    Australian High Commissioner Offers Condolences to Families of Jawans

    Australian High Commissioner to India offered condolences to the families of jawans.

    “We note India’s efforts to de-escalate at border and wish to convey deepest condolences to families of Indian soldiers who lost their lives. As a father of a serving military officer, I value sacrifice that soldiers make in defence of countries,” he said.

    Valour Will Be Eternally Etched in the Memory of Nation: President Kovind

    President Ram Nath Kovind paid tribute to the martyrs of Galwan Valley clash and said that their valour will be etched in the nation’s memory.

    Punjab CM Announces Ex-Gratia for Martyred Jawans

    Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh announced Rs12 lakh ex-gratia each to families of Nb Sub Mandeep Singh and Nb Sub Satnam Singh, as per governmentt policy, on account of their married status while Rs10 lakh each to Sep Gurtej Singh and Sep Gurbinder Singh, along with government jobs to the next of kin.

    Wreath Laying of Bihar Jawan Held at Patna Airport

    Wreath laying ceremony of Hawaldar Sunil Kumar who lost his life in Galwan Valley clash was performed at the Patna Airport. Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Modi, State BJP President Sanjay Jaiswal and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav were also present at the ceremony.

    Galwan Clash Premediated By China, EAM Tells Chinese Counterpart

    The Ministry of External Affairs said that the Galwan clash was a premediated and planned action by China and that this was strongly conveyed to the Chinese counterpart in a telephonic conversation by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

    “The Chinese side took pre-meditated and planned action that was directly responsible for the resulting violence and casualties. It reflected an intent to change the facts on ground in violation of all our agreements to not change the status quo,” Jaishankar told Chinese Freign Minister Wang Yi, according to the MEA.

    “EAM underlined that this unprecedented development will have a serious impact on the bilateral relationship. The need of the hour was for the Chinese side to reassess its actions and take corrective steps. The two sides should scrupulously and sincerely implement the understanding that was reached by the Senior Commanders on 6th June. Troops of both sides should also abide by the bilateral agreements and protocols. They should strictly respect and observe the Line of Actual Control and should not take any unilateral action to alter it,” the MEA said.

    “At the conclusion of the discussion, it was agreed that the overall situation would be handled in a responsible manner, and both sides would implement the disengagement understanding of 6 June sincerely. Neither side would take any action to escalate matters and instead, ensure peace and tranquillity as per bilateral agreements and protocols,” the statement added.

    Sacrifices Won't Go in Vain: Army

    The sacrifices made by jawans at the Galwan valley won’t go in vain, the Indian army said.

    “Chief of Army Staff General MM Naravane and all ranks salute the supreme sacrifice of our valiant soldiers at Galwan. We offer deepest condolences to the families and stand strong in our resolve towards protecting the sovereignty & integrity of our country. Their sacrifices will not go in vain,” the Army said in a statement.

    Encourage Both Countries To Show Restraint: EU

    Virginie Battu-Henriksson, EU Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy urged India and China to show restraint.

    “In light of recent worrying developments along LAC between India & China, we encourage both sides to show restraint & to engage in military de-escalation, as well as to continue the dialogue,” Battu-Henriksson said.

    “This is crucial for building trust and reaching a peaceful solution which is essential to preserving peace and stability in the region,” Battu-Henriksson added.

    China-India Agree to Resolve Clash as Soon as Possible: Report

    China, India agree to resolve border clash in a fair way, de-escalate as soon as possible, Reuters reported quoting Chinese foreign ministry.

    Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reportedly urged India to severely punish those responsible for conflict, control its frontline troops.

    Jaishankar Speaks to Chinese Foreign Minister

    In a telephonic conversation with External affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday, 17 June, Chinese counterpart Wang Yi said that the two countries should follow important consensus reached by their leaders.

    Wang emphasised that both sides should strengthen communication and coordination through existing mechanism to resolve differences.

    There's Anger in the Country: Sonia Gandhi Slams Modi Govt Over Galwan Clash

    Congress President Sonia Gandhi slammed the Modi government over the loss of lives of jawans in the Galwan Valley clash.

    “Today when there's anger in the country regarding this incident then PM should come forward and tell the truth to the country that how did China occupy our land and why did our 20 soldiers lose their lives? What is the situation there today?” she asked.

    “Are our soldiers/officers still missing? How many of our soldiers/officers are critically injured? What areas have been occupied by China? What is the policy of govt to deal with this? Congress stands with our Army, soldiers, their families and govt in this crisis,” she added.

    India Stands With The Armed Forces: Congress

    Congress leader Anand Sharma said that India stands with its armed forces in the current face-off with China

    “India stands firmly united behind its armed forces in this challenging time and we're confident that they're firm in their resolve to defend country's security. It's also important that all facts are shared with leadership of opposition parties and with Parliament,” he said.

    'Will Send my Grandchildren to the Army Too': Father of Jawan Killed in Galwan

    Father of Sepoy Kundan Kumar, who lost his life in Galwan Valley of Ladakh on 15-16 June , said, "My son sacrificed his life for the nation. I have two grandsons, I will send them too."

    Mamata Banerjee Announces Compensation for Families of Jawans Killed in Clash

    West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced compensation of Rs 5 lakh and government job to one family member each of the two soldiers, residents of the state, who lost their lives in Galwan Valley clash.

    Pain Can't Be Expressed in Words: HM Amit Shah on Galwan Valley Clash

    Home Minister Amit Shah took to Twitter to say that the pain of the loss of Army jawans in the Galwan valley clash cannot be expressed in words.

    Jawans’ Sacrifice Won’t Go in Vain, Can Give Befitting Reply: PM

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, 17 June said that the sacrifice of jawans in Ladakh won’t go in vain and that India can give a befitting reply if instigated.

    “I would like to assure the nation that the sacrifice of our jawans will not be in vain. For us, the unity and sovereignty of the country is the most important...India wants peace but it is capable to give a befitting reply if instigated” he said.

    PM Modi made the remarks just ahead of the meet with chief ministers on the COVID-19 situation. PM Modi, along with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the chief ministers of 15 states and union territories, who are present in the meeting via video-conferencing today also observed two-minute silence as a tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in the Galwan Valley clash.

    Major General-Level Talks Being Held to Further Defuse the Situation: ANI Sources

    Another round of talks at the level of major general officers is being held between India and China in the Galwan Valley to further defuse the situation, army sources cited by ANI said on Wednesday.

    Wreath-Laying Ceremony for Martyred Soldiers Performed in Leh

    The wreath laying ceremony for the soldiers who died in the Galwan Valley clash was performed at the Army Hospital in Leh on Wednesday, reported ANI.

    The names of all the 20 personnel who died were also made known on Wednesday.

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    'Salute the Selfless Sacrifices of Soldiers in Galwan Valley': Ladakh MP

    PM Calls For All-Party Meeting to Discuss India-China Tensions

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for an all-party meeting at 5 pm on 19 June to discuss the situation in the India-China border areas, the PM's Office tweeted on Wednesday.

    "Presidents of various political parties would take part in this virtual meeting," the PMO tweeted.

    Read the full story here.

    'Don't Wish to See More Clashes': China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson

    China on Wednesday said that the incident at Galwan Valley on Monday night happened on Chinese side of the LAC and the country is not to blame for it.

    "We are having communication through diplomatic and military channels. The right and wrong of this is very clear... From the Chinese side, we do not wish to see more clashes," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian was quoted by ANI as saying.

    "The sovereignty of the Galwan Valley area has always belonged to China. The Indian border troops flip-flopped and seriously violated our border protocols on border-related issues and the consensus of our commander-level talks... We ask India to strictly discipline its frontline troops, stop infringing and provocative activity at once, work with China and come back to the right track of resolving the differences through dialogue and talk [sic]," he added.

    'Loss of Soldiers Disturbing': Rajnath Singh on India-China Clashes

    Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday said the loss of soldiers at the Galwan Valley in Ladakh during a clash with Chinese troops is "deeply disturbing and painful".

    "The nation will never forget their bravery and sacrifice," he said in a tweet.

    Read the full story here.

    35 Dead & Injured on Chinese Side, Says Report

    As many as 35 troops have died or have been injured on the Chinese side after the clash at the Galwan Valley in Eastern Ladakh on Monday, PTI reported on Wednesday, citing official sources, who in turn quoted US intelligence reports.

    'Why is the PM Silent?': Rahul Gandhi After India-China Clash in Ladakh

    Indo-China Clashes: Chinese Commanding Officer Among Those Killed

    Sources told ANI on Wednesday that the commanding officer of the Chinese unit involved in the face-off with Indian troops in Galwan Valley was among those killed.

    According to news agency's sources, four Indian soldiers are also in critical condition.

    'Number of Chinese Casualties Estimated to be Much Beyond 40': Sources

    Sources told news agency ANI on Wednesday that as per assessments, China suffered a significant number of casualties in the clashes.

    “The assessment is based on the number of Chinese soldiers evacuated from the face-off location on stretchers and subsequently by ambulance vehicles on the track along the Galwan River, as also the increased Chinese helicopter movement,” the sources were quoted as saying.

    “The troops who were part of the face-off told about a significant number of Chinese casualties. Although it is difficult to specify the exact number of casualties, both killed and wounded, the number is estimated to be much beyond 40,” they added.

    ‘Support Peaceful Resolution’: US on India-China Clashes in Ladakh

    After the Indian Army confirmed that 20 of its soldiers were killed in a "violent face-off" with China at the Galwan Valley in Eastern Ladakh, the United States on Tuesday said it is "closely monitoring the situation" between the two forces along the Line of Actual Control, and expressed support for a "peaceful resolution of the current situation," ANI reported.

    "We note the Indian Army has announced that 20 soldiers lost their lives, we offer our condolences to their families," a US State Department spokesperson told ANI.

    “Both India and China have expressed desire to de-escalate and we support a peaceful resolution of current situation. During their telephonic conversation on 2 June, President Trump and PM Modi had discussed the situation on the India-China border," the spokesperson added.

    Urge India-China to Exercise Maximum Restraint: UN Spokesman

    Associate spokesperson of the United Nations Secretary General said, “We're concerned about reports of violence and deaths at Line of Actual Control between India and China and urge both sides to exercise maximum restraint. We take positive note of reports that 2 countries have engaged to deescalate the situation.”

    Communication Services Curbed in Ladakh, Alert Sounded in Himachal Pradesh

    Communication and mobile services in eastern Ladakh have been curtailed. An alert has been issued near the border areas of Himachal Pradesh too, said news reports.

    Chinese Army Used Sticks With Barbed Wires to Attack Indian Soldiers: Sources

    None of the official statements indicate what exactly transpired, but sources told The Quint that Chinese Army used sticks with barbed wires to attack Indian troops.

    Also Read: Removal of Chinese Tents Led to Violent Clashes in Galwan: Reports

    ‘Unilateral Change of Status Quo, China Violated Agreement’: MEA

    Before the Indian Army's statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said that the casualties could have been avoided on both sides had China not changed status quo unilaterally and followed the agreement at higher level.

    “On late-evening and night of 15 June, a violent face-off happened as a result of an attempt by Chinese side to unilaterally change status quo there. Both sides suffered casualties that could have been avoided had agreement at higher level been scrupulously followed by Chinese side,” the MEA said in a statement.

    17 Troops Succumb to Injuries, Death Toll at 20

    Hours after Indian Army said one commanding officer and two soldiers had died, it confirmed that 17 more Indian troops have succumbed to their injuries.

    Increase in Chinese Chopper Activity Observed

    Increase in Chinese chopper activity has been observed across the LAC to airlift casualties suffered by them during the face-off with Indian troops in Galwan valley, ANI reports citing sources.

    At Least 20 Killed in Indo-China Clash in Galwan Valley: Report

    At least 20 Indian soldiers killed in the violent face-off with China in Galwan valley in Eastern Ladakh on Monday, ANI reported quoting government sources.

    Indian intercepts told ANI that Chinese side suffered 43 casualties including dead and seriously injured in the face-off.

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