'Incorrect, without any basis': Indian Army rebuts reports of fresh Chinese encroachment in Arunachal

The Indian Army has dismissed media reports alleging fresh Chinese encroachment and the establishment of People's Liberation Army (PLA) camps inside Arunachal Pradesh, calling the claims "incorrect and without any basis."

"Seen some media reports alleging recent encroachment by Chinese PLA and setting up of camps in Arunachal Pradesh. These reports are incorrect and without any basis," the Army said.

The clarification came after the Nah Welfare Society (NWS) in Taksing, Upper Subansiri district, submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner alleging that the Chinese PLA had gradually expanded its presence in border areas.

Nah Welfare Society raises concerns

The NWS claimed that the PLA had occupied large parts of traditional grazing, hunting and agricultural land used by the Nah tribal community over the past six years.

More from World

In the memorandum, NWS president Keru Chader alleged that ancestral lands, once used for hunting, collecting forest produce and cattle grazing, were now under the occupation of the Chinese PLA.

The organisation further claimed that China had steadily expanded its control by constructing roads, bridges and military camps along the border.

Alleged incursions in five locations

According to the memorandum, Chinese activities have intensified over the past 10 to 15 years with the aim of occupying more territory along the international border.

The NWS alleged that several locations previously under its traditional control until 2020 had since come under Chinese occupation. These included Oying (Asaphila area), Paniar (Chujarta area), Marpan (Marnafe), Potrang Lake and Tindingtang (TG).

The organisation said some of these areas are located close to Taksing headquarters and also hold religious significance as pilgrimage sites.

Local MLA seeks official verification

Nacho MLA Nakap Nalo said the allegations required official verification as they concerned national security.

"The allegations need to be officially confirmed by the administration," Nalo said, adding that the reported developments were a matter of concern if found to be true.

NWS alleges construction of roads and camps

The welfare society also alleged that the PLA had built roads and military camps inside Indian territory.

Expressing confidence in the Indian Army, Chader said the community appreciated the Army's efforts but remained concerned about what it described as the increasing pace of Chinese activities in the Taksing sector.

"We do not doubt our Army and always have faith in them. They have been guarding our land for many years, but their efforts are not enough. The intention and speed of the present activities of the Chinese PLA at Taksing area is very alarming and a matter of grave concern for us. We are losing our land inch by inch day by day to them," the memorandum stated.