Indian media reports on Monday claiming Chinese and Indian troops engaged in a clash three days ago that resulted in injuries on both sides are fake, the Global Times learned from a source on Monday.
There is no record of this incident in the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) front line patrol logs, the Global Times learned.
In recent days, the focus of the military’s top leaders on both sides has been the ninth round of corps commander-level talks, not a new border clash, and the two sides have not been involved in such clashes mentioned by the Indian media.
There have been minor frictions between the frontline forces of the two countries, but if there had been friction involving casualties, it is impossible for them not to be recorded in the Chinese patrol logs.
Indian military also later made the clarification.
“We have received several queries regarding a face-off between Indian Army and PLA troops in Sikkim sector. It is clarified that there was a minor face-off at Nakula area of North Sikkim on 20 January 2021 and the same was resolved by local commanders as per established protocols. Media is requested to refrain from overplaying or exaggerating reports which are factually incorrect”, the Indian Army’s statement reads.
Indian media reported on Monday that China and Indian troops had clashed at Naku La in the north Sikkim border area on Friday, and soldiers from both sides were injured.
There have even been reports claiming at least 20 Chinese soldiers were injured, but the situation is now under control.
Indian media outlets are releasing unsubstantiated information to their benefit, however, those information is basically fake news, the Global Times learned.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian confirmed at a routine press conference on Monday that a new round of military talks between China and India has been held and the two sides will release the relevant information as soon as possible.