China’s Pakistan-occupied Kashmir footprint now 25 per cent

China has now extended its footprint to nearly 25 per cent of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The startling revelation, made in a classified report to the government by a Central intelligence agency last week, is causing considerable concern in New Delhi’s security establishment. According to the report, details of which have been accessed by this newspaper, most of this increased Chinese presence, which includes troops from the People’s Liberation Army, is in the form of undertaking strategic infrastructure projects in Gilgit, Baltistan and Satpara.

“China has been strategically increasing its presence in PoK by deploying technicians, engineers and PLA troops, and this has increased over the last few months. Even most of the technicians and engineers are from the PLA,” the report states.

Government sources said increased Chinese presence in PoK was a direct threat to India’s security and the issue is likely to be taken up during the next round of discussions on the border dispute between the two countries where India is represented by the national security adviser.

“Chinese troops have already resorted to regular intrusions into our territory in Ladakh, particularly in Chumar sector. Now their increased presence in PoK is a matter of serious concern. Since this is disputed territory, the Chinese should not carry out such large-scale infrastructure development there,” a senior intelligence official said.