Won't allow even an inch of territory to be taken: Rajnath Singh

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said that security forces have proved that they are ready to face any challenge to protect the sovereignty of the country and that India will not allow even an inch of its territory to be taken.

Talking about the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Rajya Sabha, Singh said, "Our sustained talks with China have led to agreement on disengagement on the north and south banks of Pangong Lake. After this agreement, India-China will remove forward deployments in a phased, coordinated manner."

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"We've begun talks over North-South bank of Pangong Lake Some issues over deployment at LAC are yet to be resolved. Both sides agreed that complete disengagement to be done at the earliest," he said.

He stated that China will keep its troops to the east of the Finger 8 at the north bank of Pangong Lake, while India will keep its troops at its permanent base near Finger 3. He said, "We are committed to maintaining a peaceful situation at the Line of Control. India has always emphasised on maintaining bilateral ties."

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He said that many fraction areas are built near LAC in Eastern Ladakh and China has collected heavy force, arms and ammunition near LAC and in the nearby area on its side. He added that the Indian forces have also effectively done counter deployment.

"No matter which party you belong to, the country stands united when it comes to national security," Singh added.