Former President Pranab Mukherjee expressed condolences for the death of the soldiers in Ladakh.
Former President Pranab Mukherjee today said the events in Ladakh are of "grave concern" not only for the nation's strategic interests but also have "far-reaching global geo-political ramifications". While handling it, the government should take "various stake-holders" on board and ensure that "nothing but out national interests are kept supreme", said the former President.
In a statement he tweeted this evening, Mr Mukherjee -- who held post of the country's defence minister and as President, was the Supreme Commander of the armed forces -- also expressed his condolences to the families of the 20 soldiers who died for the country during Monday's clashes with Chinese troops at Ladakh's Galwan area.
The pitched battle at Ladakh-- fought with stones, sticks and clubs -- was the first in nearly 50 years that ended in fatalities.
Contending that the soul of the nation is "bruised" by the event, Mr Mukherjee said it should be addressed by the entire political class, though the onus lies mostly on the government. The government should also explore all avenues to avoid repetition of such events in future, said Mr Mukhejee, who was known for making his views clear without overstepping the Presidential boundaries.
Earlier today, President Ram Nath Kovind had tweeted his condolences regarding the death of the soldiers. "As Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, I bow to the exemplary courage and supreme sacrifice of our soldiers to protect the sovereignty and integrity of the country," his tweet read.
India has already issued a strong message to China saying the action of its troops in Ladakh has been "pre-meditated and planned". In a telephonic conversation with his China counterpart, foreign minister S Jaishankar said the unprecedented development "will have a serious impact on the bilateral relationship" and China has to take corrective steps.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Office has said that he will hold an all-party meeting to discuss the situation in Ladakh on Friday. While addressing a virtual meeting of Chief Ministers this evening, PM Modi also said the sacrifice of the soldiers will not go in vain. "India's integrity and sovereignty is supreme for us, and no one can stop us from defending it. Nobody should have any iota of doubt about this. India wants peace but when provoked, it is capable of giving a fitting reply, be it any situation," he said.
The Congress, to which Mr Mukherjee belonged before being elevated to the country's top post, has issued a series of sharp questions to the government.
Today party chief Sonia Gandhi demanded that Prime Minister Narendra Modi explain the ground situation, with details about how much of Indian territory is under China's control and how many Indian soldiers are missing.