In a significant development, the disengagement process between Indian and Chinese forces along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) has commenced, just days after both nations reached an agreement to resolve the standoff in eastern Ladakh. Sources informed Times Now that the process began in a phased manner on Tuesday, with both sides dismantling temporary structures.

Indian soldiers have withdrawn to the west side of Charding Nala, while Chinese troops have retreated to the east side. Additionally, temporary tents in key friction points such as Depsang and Demchok have been removed by both countries.

This progress follows the four-year anniversary of the Galwan clash, a significant conflict between the two nations. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced on Monday that Indian and Chinese military negotiators had come to an agreement on patrolling arrangements along the LAC. He stated, "As a result of the discussions that have taken place over the last several weeks, an agreement has been reached on patrolling arrangements along the India-China border area. This is leading to disengagement and eventually a resolution of the issues that arose in these areas in 2020."

The endorsement of this agreement came from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping during the BRICS Summit in Russia, where they also directed the revival of various bilateral dialogue mechanisms. This move signals a desire to normalize relations that had been strained following the military clash in Galwan.

For context, the Galwan clash erupted on May 5, 2020, near the north bank of the Pangong Tso lake, escalating into a violent confrontation on June 15 between Indian patrols and PLA troops in the Galwan Valley, resulting in casualties on both sides. The current disengagement marks a hopeful step towards stabilizing the situation in the region.