India-China Border Dispute: MEA Lacks Exact Data, RTI Reveals
The India-China border dispute has been a contentious issue for decades, with both countries claiming ownership of a significant portion of the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The dispute has led to several skirmishes and standoffs in recent years, including the current standoff in Ladakh. In the face of this ongoing tension, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has been criticized for its lack of transparency and unwillingness to provide accurate information on the extent of Chinese occupation of Indian territory.
A recent RTI (Right to Information) application filed by activist Ajay Kumar has shed light on the MEA’s reluctance to provide precise data on Chinese occupation of Indian territory. Kumar’s RTI demanded specifics on the total amount of Indian territory under military occupation by China across nine critical junctures from the 1962 Sino-Indian War to the present day. The MEA’s response was vague and lacking in detail, sparking concerns about its commitment to transparency and accountability.
The RTI application specifically asked for information on the following nine junctures:
- The 1962 Sino-Indian War
- The 1967 Nathu La and Cho La clashes
- The 1975 China-India Border Talks
- The 1987 Sumdorong Chu standoff
- The 1993 Depsang Plains standoff
- The 2000 Burtse standoff
- The 2013 Chumar standoff
- The 2014 Doklam standoff
- The current standoff in Ladakh
The MEA’s response to the RTI application was disappointing, to say the least. The ministry claimed that it did not have precise year-wise data on Chinese occupation of Indian territory, citing the complexity of the border dispute and the need for further research. This lack of transparency is worrisome, as it raises questions about the MEA’s commitment to providing accurate information to the public.
The MEA’s response also highlighted the need for greater transparency and accountability in the handling of the India-China border dispute. The border has been a source of tension and conflict for decades, and it is essential that the MEA provides accurate and timely information to the public to maintain trust and confidence in its handling of the issue.
The RTI application also revealed that the MEA had failed to provide specific information on the total amount of Indian territory under military occupation by China. This lack of transparency has sparked concerns about the MEA’s willingness to provide accurate information to the public. The MEA’s response was vague and lacking in detail, leading to speculation about the extent of Chinese occupation of Indian territory.
The India-China border dispute is a complex and sensitive issue, and it requires careful handling and diplomacy. The MEA must take steps to increase transparency and accountability in its handling of the issue, including providing accurate and timely information to the public.
The RTI application filed by Ajay Kumar highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in the handling of the India-China border dispute. The MEA must take steps to provide accurate and timely information to the public, including specific details on Chinese occupation of Indian territory.
In conclusion, the MEA’s lack of transparency and unwillingness to provide accurate information on Chinese occupation of Indian territory is a cause for concern. The RTI application filed by Ajay Kumar has shed light on the MEA’s reluctance to provide precise data on the extent of Chinese occupation of Indian territory, and it has highlighted the need for greater transparency and accountability in the handling of the issue.
The India-China border dispute is a complex and sensitive issue, and it requires careful handling and diplomacy. The MEA must take steps to increase transparency and accountability in its handling of the issue, including providing accurate and timely information to the public. Only through greater transparency and accountability can the MEA build trust and confidence with the public and effectively manage the India-China border dispute.
Source:
https://theprobe.in/security/india-china-border-dispute-mea-lacks-exact-data-rti-reveals-8830511
