In a scathing revelation, former Indian Army Chief General M.M. Naravane has claimed that India's failure against the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) in the 2020 Ladakh border standoff was primarily due to political indecision. Naravane's memoir, set to be released soon, provides a behind-the-scenes look at the critical moments that led to the high-stakes military confrontation.
A "Hot Potato" Moment
According to Naravane's account, on the night of August 31, 2020, when the PLA moved tanks and troops towards the Rechin La mountain pass on the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the then-Defense Minister Rajnath Singh gave the army chief a carte blanche, telling him to "do whatever you deem appropriate." This, Naravane writes, was a "hot potato" moment that placed the onus solely on the military leadership.
Weighing Risks and Consequences
In his memoir, Naravane recounts the myriad thoughts that raced through his mind as he grappled with the gravity of the situation. He had to consider India's broader challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on the economy and global supply chains. The Wire reports that Naravane "was in his den at Army House, with the map of J&K and Ladakh on one wall, Eastern Command on another" as he contemplated his next move.
A "Game of Bluff"
Rather than opting for a preemptive strike, Naravane strategically positioned Indian tanks at the forward slopes of the Rechin La pass, initiating what he calls a "game of bluff" with the Chinese forces. Swarajya reports that "upon realizing the potential consequences, the PLA halted their advance." This decisive move by Naravane, made in the absence of clear political direction, ultimately prevented a larger conflict.
Lessons for the Future
Naravane's revelations shed light on the critical role of political leadership in navigating complex geopolitical challenges. The failure to provide clear guidance and empower the military to act decisively, as the former army chief suggests, ultimately put India at a disadvantage against the PLA's aggression. As India continues to grapple with border tensions, this cautionary tale serves as a reminder of the need for stronger political-military coordination and decision-making processes.