LADAKH, India (Diya TV) — For the first time in nearly five decades, there’s been bloodshed over a border clash between India and China in Ladakh — in skirmishes without gunfire. At least 43 Chinese soldiers were killed, according to a report by Indian news wire service ANI. The Indian Army confirms 20 of their men died, including their commanding officer. The Chinese government indicates there was loss of life on their side, but they have not confirmed the total. Both sides are saying the other provoked the battle. And while guns were not drawn, soldiers used bamboo sticks with nails and stones in the clash. And a number of lives were lost in shoving matches, with soldiers falling to their deaths along the steep cliffs of the Himalayas. The U.S. State Department said they are closely monitoring border clash and are encouraging a peaceful resolution.
The Indian Army is also saying Pakistan is in violation of a ceasefire accord by firing mortars and other weapons along Line of Control in Naugam sector of Jammu and Kashmir. Army officials say India responded in kind.
Ravi Kapur contributed to this report.
