Finally! China Admits PLA Too Suffered Casualties In Galwan Valley Clash, Still Claims Toll Not Heavy

First time since the 15 June clash between the Indian and Chinese troops in Galwan valley of Eastern Ladakh, China admitted it too suffered casualties in the deadly brawl. However, it claimed the toll was not heavy on its side.

A top Chinese official, while speaking to some foreign diplomats at the Chinese foreign ministry on Wednesday (24 June), said China did not reveal its number as it did not want to stir up the hostility because of a comparison, Hindustan Times reported.

He Xiangqi, Deputy Director General of Boundary and Ocean Affairs, said the “…casualties on the Chinese side were not very heavy”.

“Exact casualties were not publicised as China did not want the media to play it up. Now was the time for both sides to find ways to de-escalate the situation and restore stability. Comparisons may trigger antagonism on both sides, which is not helpful," Xiangqi said, according to the sources quoted in the report.

The acknowledgement becomes the first instance when a Chinese government official has admitted that their People's Liberation Army (PLA) too suffered casualties in the first deadly clash between the two countries in over four decades.

The Indian Army, on the other hand, lost 20 of its soldiers of 16 Bihar Regiment, including its commanding officer Colonel Santosh Babu.

However, earlier during the military talks between the officials of the Indian Army and the PLA last week, Chinese delegation confirmed that it also lost a commanding officer in the clashes.