Chinese military aircraft intrude into Indian airspace, Congress questions Modi government

Reports indicate the aircraft remained within Indian territory for about 20 to 25 minutes on November 12.

Amid reports of tension along the India-China border in Arunachal Pradesh, a new report has emerged. According to an Outlook report, a Chinese military aircraft allegedly entered Indian airspace over Sikkim. The report states that the aircraft remained within Indian territory for about 20 to 25 minutes on November 12. The Congress party has demanded an explanation from the Indian government on its X handle, asking why the movement of the Chinese aircraft was ignored despite warnings from the Air Force. However, there has been no public statement from the Indian Air Force, the Ministry of Defence, or the Ministry of External Affairs confirming the identification of the aircraft or the duration of its presence in Indian airspace. This incident is concerning because the area where the plane was reportedly sighted is very close to the Siliguri Corridor, which is a strategically important part of India.

Flying near the border and entering Indian airspace are two separate incidents, but if this has occurred, it is alarming. As of the time of writing, the Indian Air Force has not confirmed this incident, but sources from Outlook have stated that the Indian Air Force observed the Chinese aircraft at around 25,000 ft within Indian territory at 8 AM on November 12 and warned it to return, but the Chinese aircraft continued to circle within Indian borders. Sikkim is located near Doklam, where clashes occurred between Indian and Chinese forces in 2017.

This is not the first time that Chinese aircraft have been sighted in Indian territory. Previously, Chinese planes were seen near Indian Army bases in Ladakh, and the Indian embassy raised the issue with its Chinese counterparts. In 2020, Chinese helicopters were also spotted near the Line of Control, and the Indian Air Force dispatched its aircraft to drive them away from the border; a similar incident was recorded in 2017.

If it is confirmed that an aircraft entered across the Line of Actual Control, that violation must cease immediately. The agreement stipulates that the party operating the aircraft must investigate the incident and communicate the results to the other party through diplomatic channels or meetings at the border. However, there has been no public confirmation of any such investigation or formal protest in this case. The opposition has raised questions about how reports of this incursion emerged when Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu had stated just days earlier that everything was normal in the border area, and what firm action the government plans to take regarding this matter.

In recent history, the only instances of heightened tension between India and China were during the 1962 war and the 1967 Nathu La clash. However, both countries appear committed to resolving every issue through dialogue for the betterment of their citizens, as evidenced by their trade agreements. Leaders from both countries have also shown a preference for resolving disputes over the McMahon Line and the LAC through negotiations.

It remains to be clarified whether Indian agencies recorded any Chinese military aircraft over Sikkim on November 12. If they did, was its flight path within Indian airspace, and how long did it remain there? Only after this can the question arise as to whether India raised the matter with China and what response was received. Currently, the date, identification of the aircraft, and the 20–25 minute duration are part of the claim that still needs confirmation. Official comments will be awaited to understand the root of this matter.