PM Modi Sends Strong Message In India-China Conflict, Surprises All By Landing In Leh To Visit Forward Areas

In a strong message during the ongoing conflict with China on the Ladakh-China border, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Leh earlier this morning and visited a forward location (name of which Swarajya will not disclose for national security reasons), where he interacted with ITBP and Indian Army officials.

Aaj Tak reported that Modi reached Leh at 7am and called the development "unpredictable". The move seems to have stunned the media presence in Leh, who were expecting Defence minister Rajnath Singh to visit.

Reports say that the PM will review the on-ground security situation amid the standoff and violent face off with China. with China and the progress in talks with the Chinese military.

Indian Army Chief Gen M M Naravane is also present with PM Modi, who is in action since morning. India TV has disclosed the name of the location (Swarajya withholds the detail). The channel has reported that PM Modi has met ITBP, IAF and Indian Army personnel. Reports say that Modi was briefed by 14 Corps commander.

The visit is said to be unannounced. Defence minister Rajnath Singh's visit to the forward locations was put off. This report says that sources have said that the "government was waiting to see if the Chinese would honour the commitments made during the Corps Commander-level talks over three rounds - on June 6, June 22 and June 30."

Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat is in Leh. He reached Leh today. "He will be briefed on the present situation in the Eastern Ladakh sector by the 14 Corps officials," reports say.

India TV has reported that the decision was made last evening.