Srinagar, Oct 15: In response to fresh territorial assertions from Beijing, the Leh Apex Body (LAB) on Thursday rejected China’s refusal to recognise Ladakh’s status as a Union Territory, declaring that the region has always been and will remain an inseparable part of India.
The latest diplomatic fallout was triggered by India’s move on October 2 to assign standardised geographical names to 28 strategic locations and key landforms across Ladakh.
Reacting to New Delhi’s initiative, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated during a press briefing that Beijing does not recognise the “illegally and unilaterally established Union Territory of Ladakh” and firmly opposes India’s publication of standard place names in the region. Beijing further asserted claims over areas in western Ladakh, alleging that the territory historically belonged to China.
At a press conference in Leh, LAB leaders condemned the Chinese remarks, terming them baseless, unacceptable and historically inaccurate.
Addressing the press conference, LAB leaders, including chairman Chering Dorjey, emphasised that western Ladakh had never been under Chinese control or administration in recorded history.
“We strongly condemn the Chinese remarks claiming that western Ladakh has always been part of China. Ladakh has never been under Chinese rule. No external power can dictate the identity, aspirations or future of Ladakh,” he said. “Ladakh stands firmly with India, and its people will continue to uphold the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of the nation.”
“Never in recorded history was Ladakh a part of China. We appeal to the Government of India to condemn it in the strongest terms,” Larkook, who also heads the Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA), said.
Larkook said the people of Ladakh were “living happily with India”.
“We will not give up an inch, including Aksai Chin, which is under illegal occupation by China,” he added.
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