Chinese forces still deployed in Tibet's Chumbi Valley post-Doklam standoff: Air Chief BS Dhanoa

Chinese forces are still present in Tibet's Chumbi Valley, Air Chief BS Dhanoa said today.

Addressing media during the annual press conference of the Indian Air Force in New Delhi on Thursday, the Air Chief said despite Doklam resolution Beijing has still not withdrawn the forces from ground completely.

“We expect them withdraw,” Air Chief Marshal Dhanoa said.

The news comes almost two months after both India and China agreed to “expeditious disengagement” over Doklam.

The diplomatic success came at a time when Prime Minister Narendra Modi was scheduled to visit China for the BRICS summit.

The stand-off started in mid-June when Chinese troops entered Bhutanese territory to build a road, sparking India’s intervention, citing agreements to maintain a status quo in the region. India had deployed about 350 Army personnel in the area.

The status of Chinese troops in geopolitically crucial Chumbi Valley, which was at the heart of Dokla standoff, will have its implications.

Talking about surgical strikes, the Air Chief Marshal said, “Surgical strike is a decision that has to be taken by the government. Indian Air Force has the capability to carry out full spectrum of air ops.”

“Our losses during peace time are cause of concern. We are making concentrated efforts to minimize accidents and preserve our assets,” he added.