Amid the growing border tensions China has raised objections over Defence Minister A K Antony’s visit to the bordering state Arunachal Pradesh. The defence minister visited the state on the occasion of its 25th Anniversary Celebrations. The neighboring nation commented India should refrain from taking any action that could 'complicate' the border issue.
Miffed over the cross-border comments Antony said “I was surprised to see such a reaction. I feel it is most unfortunate and, at the same time, it is really objectionable.” Antony also cited that as a defence minister it is his right to visit Arunachal Pradesh which is an integral part of India. By adding further, he said, “I have been visiting Arunachal since 1984. This time, I was thrilled to visit the state on its silver jubilee of attaining statehood”.
The news on China increasing its forces along India border has been hitting headlines almost daily. The Prime Minister, after his visit to the neighboring nation last year, tried to disperse this as mere media hype and said it is hurting the bilateral relations. PM along with his Chinese counter-part has also set up a mechanism which can manage the border disputes between the two nations. However, the aforementioned comments from China and reports from various along-border agencies of rising cross-border military presence are hints for Indian forces to strengthen their presence as well.
