The death of ten soldiers in an avalanche at Siachen has come as big shock. The tragedy has once again put spotlight on Siachen, which is considered the highest battlefield in this world. One junior commissioned officer (JCO) and nine jawans of the Army’s 19 Madras Regiment died after they got trapped inside avalanche. The incident took place on 3rd of this month. Siachen is the world’s highest active battlefield, contested by India and Pakistan since 1984 when India launched Operation Meghdoot. In April 1984, the Indian Army moved in to pre-empt a move by the Pakistan Army to occupy the glacier. Indian Army currently occupies the full Siachen glacier, while Pakistani forces are deployed at the lower heights of Saltoro ridge.
Since occupying the area Indian army has lost more number of personnel to weather related incident. With this latest incident, there are questions being raised over stationing of soldiers in such inhospitable area. Some people are even suggesting for withdrawal of troops. However government of India led by Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar has dissmissed suggestions for withdrawal of troops from Siachen. India is worried that if they leave heights of Siachen, Pakistan might occupy it. Such situation will give advantage to the Pakistan. Therefore in all probability India will not vacate the posts. But in the long run, the two countries will have to find a solution. Both India and Pakistan spends huge money in manning their respective posts. Finding lasting solution to vexed Indo-Pak issue might take years but at least they should explore the possibilities of finding some solution on Siachen. The two countries should not turn beautiful glacier into death field.
Saturday, November 23, 2024