New Delhi: India has fiercely protested China’s intention to establish two new counties in a territory claimed by India—parts of Ladakh, a region at the heart of the ongoing India-China border dispute. Officially opposing this action, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it will not tolerate such behavior, ignoring India’s sovereignty.
Chinese news agency Xinhua claims that on December 27, the Xinjiang administration created Hekang County and He’an County. Hotan Prefecture will administer these counties; the State Council and the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China accepted the decision.
India’s Response
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “Parts of these so-called counties are in Ladakh, part of India. We do not accept China’s illegal occupation of Indian land.” He further emphasized that creating new administrative units does not change the ground reality.
He added, “This act by China does not make their claim valid. We have lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels and will continue to assert our rights and sovereignty over the region.”
Reports indicate that the main administrative centers for these counties are Hongliu Township for He’an County and Xeyidula Township for Hekang County. These areas are close to Aksai Chin, a region that has been in dispute between India and China for decades.
Background on the India-China Border Dispute
India and China’s border tensions date back to the 1962 Sino-Indian War, during which China occupied Aksai Chin, a part of Ladakh that India continues to claim as its territory. The poorly defined Line of Actual Control (LAC) has led to frequent standoffs and disputes between the two nations.
The situation worsened in 2020 during the Galwan Valley clash, where soldiers from both sides were involved in a violent confrontation, resulting in casualties. Despite multiple rounds of talks, a lasting resolution to the border dispute remains elusive.
India’s Actions Against China’s Moves
India sees China’s new countries as part of a larger plan to increase its control over disputed areas. The Indian government has unequivocally said such acts are undesirable and compromise continuous attempts to settle border problems by communication.
Apart from organizing a formal protest, India has interacted with its foreign allies to spread awareness about the conduct of China. To guarantee observance of international norms and rules, New Delhi has asked for help.
Concerns Over the Brahmaputra River
The construction of a sizable hydroelectric project on the Yarlung Tsangpo River—known as the Brahmaputra in India—is another controversial topic between India and China. Xinhua said on December 25 that China is developing hydropower resources by constructing a huge dam in Tibet.
India, a lower riparian state, mostly depends on the Brahmaputra for water, agriculture, and ecosystems in its northeastern section—all of which are vital for the millions of people’s livelihoods. The MEA stated concerns over the possible influence of such projects on the continuous India-China border dispute. “We have used diplomatic negotiations and expert-level systems to bring our concerns before China. The spokesman said that big projects like these can have a big impact on the environment, agriculture, and water flow.
Indian specialists caution that the dam can cause ecological imbalance and affect the water availability downstream. India has urged China to guarantee openness and collaboration to stop damage to less developed riparian nations.
Strategic and Military Preparations
China’s actions—including creating new counties and infrastructure close to disputed borders—are interpreted as measures to strengthen its posture. According to analysts, these actions are meant to constitute a counterpoint to India’s territorial claims and assertion of control in the area.
India has responded by stepping up attempts to improve border infrastructure. This covers developing new bridges, highways, and advanced military bases. The government has also raised investment in advanced technology and surveillance systems to improve security along the Line of Actual Control.
India collaborates closely with partners to handle issues raised by China’s increasing might. Cooperation among like-minded countries seeks to promote regional stability and peace.
Hopes for Dialogue and Resolution
India and China are ready to communicate even if their tensions are high. Though progress has been slow, diplomats and military leaders have regularly assembled to resolve problems. India is certain that whatever solution protects its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Conclusion
China’s creation of new counties in disputed territories and its hydropower projects on the Brahmaputra have further strained relations with India amid the ongoing India-China border dispute. However, India’s strong diplomatic stance and strategic actions highlight its determination to protect its interests.
While challenges persist, there is hope that continued dialogue and international cooperation can pave the way for a peaceful resolution. Both nations must work toward fostering mutual respect and understanding to ensure stability in the region.
