Question : Chinese Military Command Along the Indian Border

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:

(a) whether China has elevated military command along the Indian Border in the recent past and if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether the Government is aware of the road and railway projects being developed by China along the Indian border and if so, the details thereof along with the present status of the rail link from China to Nepal involving building a tunnel under Mount Everest;

(c) whether the Government proposes to review its foreign policy with China keeping in view China’s alleged suspicious activities along the Indian border; and

(d) if so, the details thereof and if not, the manner in which the Government will put a curb on Chinese activities along the Indian borders?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
[GEN. (DR) V. K. SINGH (RETD)]

(a) Government is aware of reports stating that the Tibet Military Command’s political rank will be elevated to one level higher than its counterpart provincial-level military commands, and it will come directly under the leadership of PLA Army.

(b) to (d) Government is also aware of infrastructural development in the border areas on the Chinese side. Government has seen media reports, which are not authenticated, that China plans to extend its rail link to Nepal which might involve building a tunnel under Mount Everest. Government keeps a constant watch on all developments having a bearing on India’s security and takes all necessary measures to safeguard it.