A former Indian Army sector commander emphasized that strong preparations by the Indian Army in 2020 helped avoid a major conflict during the violent clash in Galwan Valley with Chinese troops.
In a recent lecture in Thiruvananthapuram, Brigadier Saurabh Singh Shekhawat, the sector commander at the time of the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes, discussed how the Indian Army's robust preparations prevented the escalation of the conflict into a full-blown war with China. He attributed the success to the Indian forces’ readiness which communicated to the adversary that India could respond effectively to any challenges posed by China. The clash on June 15, 2020, while violent, was contained largely due to this state of preparedness.
Brigadier Shekhawat highlighted that despite the violent nature of the encounter, which can be characterized as a 'contact battle' where no shots were fired and soldiers resorted to using stones and clubs, the situation was managed effectively. He asserted that the enemy reacts to displays of power, suggesting that the show of strength by Indian forces was vital in stabilizing the conditions post-clash. This incident not only underscored the tactical significance of preparedness in military engagements but also reflected on the broader implications for Indian defense strategies.
The insights provided by Brigadier Shekhawat shed light on the importance of military readiness in handling unexpected threats. His remarks come at a time of heightened tensions between India and China, demonstrating that while force is a language understood by adversaries, diplomacy and preparedness are equally critical in maintaining peace and stability in border areas. The takes from the lecture could influence future policies on military preparedness and response strategies for India's defense forces.
