Chinese “incursions” a matter of “perception,” says Indian army chief

New Delhi: ''Incursions'' by Chinese troops in Arunachal Pradesh are a result of a difference of "perception" of where the Line of Actual Control (LAC) lies, Indian Army chief, Gen Deepak Kapoor, has said in an interview with a TV channel. He pointed out that Indian troops also made moves that could be perceived as an ''intrusion'' by the other side.

Striking a note of caution, Gen Kapoor said that border infrastructure on the Chinese side was better than that of India, which gave the Chinese an "additional capability to bring additional troops."

In this regard he mentioned that the government was "seriously'' looking into this aspect.

"I think a degree of misperception has been built on this issue of incursions. First and foremost, it is a matter of perception. The Chinese have a different perception of the LAC as do we. When they come up to their perception, we call it an incursion and likewise they do," Gen Kapoor said in the TV interview.

As for the number of such incursions, Gen Kapoor said that the total number of incursions in 2007 is "somewhat similar to what it has been in the past. So, the feeling that too many incursions have taken place into Indian territory is not right."

When asked if Indian troops too ''intruded'' into Chinese territory as often because of differences of perception about the LAC, the army chief replied, "That's right...which they would call an incursion into their side. So, therefore, to that extent, we would be as much blameworthy for that kind of incursion up to our perceived LAC."

Gen Kapoor also dismissed the perception that Chinese incursions were a sign of muscle flexing by Beijing. "I do not share that at all...that is why I say at times the press has not been fair in reporting this very accurately," he said.

Gen Kapoor also said that satellite technology gives India an ability to see across the LAC and keep a watch on movements of Chinese troops.

"Whilst that (Chinese ability to move troops faster) is a matter of concern, the fact is that if and when they move (troops) there are also today images available through the means of satellite. Whenever any such movement takes place there is an ample opportunity for notice to be able to meet such a challenge if and when it does happen," he said.