Chinese choppers violate Indian airspace

Two Chinese Army helicopters violated Indian air space in Ladakh's Chumar area July 11, said sources Sunday. Defence officials, however, denied there had been any transgression, saying the choppers flew close to the LAC but did not cross it.

The incident occurred days after the Chinese soldiers transgressed the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Chumar sector and took away a surveillance camera. The equipment was later returned.

According to the sources, the two Chinese Army helicopters, apparently on reconnaissance mission, entered Indian airspace July 11 morning.

However, Army and IAF officials said the two flew close to the LAC but were in their own territory.

Army sources also added that there were different perceptions of the LAC.

In Chumar, the Indian side is at a more advantageous position and has a proper road compared to the Chinese side. It also has observation cameras and are able to keep an eye on Chinese developments.

The incident comes within days of Defence Minister A.K. Antony's visit to China where the two sides agreed to maintain peace, tranquility and stability on LAC and strengthen communication and coordination at various levels between the border guarding forces.

Indian and Chinese forces were "face-to-face" in the Chumar sector of Ladakh after Chinese troops transgressed into the Indian side on June 17 and took the surveillance camera.

The camera was returned after the Indian Army authorities took up the issue with their Chinese counterparts, the sources said.

Sources said there were "sensitivities involved due to differing perceptions" of LAC in the area.

Chumar sector is located about 200 km from Depsang where the April 15 intrusion by Chinese troops had taken place.