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Overlooked Military Conflicts on the Sino-Indian Border Since 1962

Indian and Chinese soldiers on the common border. (Photo: sydasien.se)

By Newsancai

May 12, 2025
3:03 pm
Los Angeles, CA

Following the Chinese military’s withdrawal from the eastern and western sectors of the Sino-Indian border in 1963, China reimposed a policy of disengagement and limited contact. Direct military confrontation was largely confined to the China-Sikkim border, where India had stationed two to three mountain infantry brigades. Indian troops frequently provoked Chinese forces in this region—particularly at Nathu La Pass—by repeatedly crossing the demarcated boundary, relocating markers, constructing fortifications, and installing communications infrastructure. Indian aircraft also violated Chinese airspace on several occasions, conducting reconnaissance over Tibetan areas including Khampa Zong and Yadong. By 1966, amid the height of China’s Cultural Revolution, political turmoil had spread to frontier areas. In this volatile context, Indian forces launched a series of provocations that culminated in a significant armed clash at Nathu La in

By 1966, amid the height of China’s Cultural Revolution, political turmoil had spread to frontier areas. In this volatile context, Indian forces launched a series of provocations that culminated in a significant armed clash at Nathu La in September 1967. The Chinese military responded with limited countermeasures authorized by the Central Military Commission, particularly in response to increased Indian incursions and fortification efforts along the Yadong border.

The 1967 Clash at Nathu La Pass

In September 1967, Indian troops from the 112th Brigade of the 17th Mountain Division repeatedly attempted to reinforce fencing at Nathu La Pass, ignoring multiple warnings from the Chinese side. On September 7, they crossed the border again, injuring two Chinese soldiers. On the morning of September 11, over 100 Indian soldiers entered Chinese-controlled territory to continue erecting barriers and initiated hostilities by opening fire.

In defense, Chinese forces launched a counteroffensive guided by the principle: “respond proportionally, defend every inch of land, never show weakness, never accept loss.”

Battle Summary:

On September 7, 1967, at 7:30 a.m., Indian forces advanced toward Manigang Pass, dividing into two groups and approaching Chinese positions under cover from their own artillery. Chinese troops fortified Positions No. 1 and No. 2 with infantry and machine gun units. Despite warning shots, the Indian troops pressed forward and opened fire at 8:07 a.m., killing the machine gun company commander and wounding six others. The Chinese response was immediate and forceful.

Chinese positions retaliated with concentrated fire, reportedly killing 57 Indian soldiers on the spot. A barrage of rocket and mortar fire destroyed key Indian fortifications, forcing a retreat. At 8:15 a.m., the conflict escalated into an artillery duel that lasted four days. Chinese artillery—comprising 122mm howitzers, recoilless rifles, and mortars—targeted 21 enemy positions, destroying 23 fortifications and killing an estimated 550 Indian soldiers. Chinese casualties totaled 123, including 32 fatalities.

The Indian side was eventually compelled to retrieve their dead and weapons under a signed handover agreement, marking a tactical and diplomatic victory for China.

The Clash at Cho La Pass

On October 1, 1967—China’s National Day—Indian forces instigated another confrontation at Cho La Pass. A platoon from the 7th Gurkha Battalion advanced toward Chinese positions in a provocative maneuver, eventually capturing a Chinese sentry.

When the Indian platoon leader fired a pistol at Chinese troops, full-scale fighting erupted. Chinese forces, including artillery units, responded swiftly. By 7:55 p.m., both sides ceased fire. Chinese forces reportedly destroyed nine Indian fortifications and inflicted approximately 195 casualties. This engagement further underscored China’s resolve to defend its territorial claims.

The 1987 Sumdorong Chu Standoff

India’s defeat in 1962 remained a source of national trauma. By the 1980s, buoyed by Soviet support and improved military capabilities, India pursued a more assertive border policy. In 1986, it unilaterally declared the establishment of “Arunachal Pradesh,” and soon after, Indian troops crossed the Line of Actual Control (LAC) to occupy disputed territory in the Sumdorong Chu Valley.

China responded by reinforcing its positions and initiating encroachment countermeasures. In March 1987, a skirmish broke out. While the exchange of fire was brief, the resulting standoff persisted for over a month. Six Indian soldiers’ bodies were returned by Chinese forces, suggesting the clash occurred on territory under Chinese control.

According to reports at the time, Chinese troops had raised a national flag at a disputed pass, triggering the Indian response. Indian forces allegedly walked into a prepared Chinese ambush. Facing unfavorable geopolitical conditions and lacking support from the Soviet Union, India deescalated. Later that year, Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi visited China, initiating a gradual thaw in relations.

Additional Notes and Incidents

Silent Standoff, Summer 1987:

One symbolic moment occurred during a border standoff in the summer of 1987. Over 100 Chinese soldiers, standing in silent formation under harsh weather, faced off against 400 Indian troops. For six hours, they held their ground under hail, sun, and wind—never flinching. The Indians eventually withdrew. The Chinese unit involved traced its lineage back to early revolutionary days, including service in the Korean War and the Northern Expedition.

A Lone Defector:
Following the Sumdorong Chu incident, a minority soldier from Assam defected to the Chinese side, citing mistreatment in the Indian ranks. For political reasons, he was repatriated. His fate remains unknown.

Conclusion

These lesser-known incidents along the Sino-Indian border reveal a persistent pattern of friction, driven by historical grievances, geopolitical ambitions, and shifting domestic priorities. While full-scale war has been avoided since 1962, localized conflicts—such as at Nathu La, Cho La, and Sumdorong Chu—underscore the volatility of this frontier. Despite intermittent periods of calm and diplomatic overtures, the border remains a symbol of unresolved tensions and fragile peace.