NEW DELHI: India has stressed that maintaining peace and tranquillity along the disputed Line of Actual Control (LAC) is essential for the broader relationship with China, amid reports of renewed military activity in Arunachal Pradesh.

The Ministry of External Affairs said border-related issues remain “most serious” and made clear that developments along the frontier would have a direct bearing on overall bilateral ties.

The remarks came after reports of increased Chinese activity near Taksing in Arunachal Pradesh. Some local reports have alleged that Chinese troops restricted access to traditional patrolling areas, although the claims have not been independently verified. Indian defence officials have also dismissed reports of Chinese troops entering Indian-controlled territory as unsubstantiated.

China, meanwhile, said the situation along the India-China border was “generally stable at the moment”. Beijing also pointed to the recent meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs, where both sides agreed to maintain communication and use established mechanisms to preserve peace.

The latest developments come as New Delhi and Beijing seek to stabilise ties following years of tensions after the deadly 2020 Galwan Valley clashes. The two countries have since taken steps toward disengagement and resumed diplomatic engagement, but the disputed Himalayan frontier remains a major source of friction.

The issue assumes added significance ahead of the BRICS summit scheduled to be held in New Delhi in September, which Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to attend. Any renewed military tension along the LAC could complicate efforts to further improve relations between the two Asian powers.