The armed forces are said to have been given a free hand to assess the situation on the ground along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and take appropriate action as required in case of any escalation from the other side, a defence source on Sunday. This was conveyed during a meeting chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh with the Chief of Defence Staff and the three Service Chiefs.
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“The situation along the LAC and preparedness of the armed forces was reviewed at the meeting. Forces have a free hand to assess the situation and to take action as required. While we don’t want escalation but if it happens by the other side, appropriate action will be taken. Clear cut instructions to this effect were given,” a defence source said on Sunday.
Russia visit
Mr. Singh held the meeting ahead of his scheduled departure to Russia on Monday for participation in the 75th anniversary of World War-II.
The prevailing border situation is also expected to come up for discussion at Mr. Singh’s meetings in Moscow. The Minister will return on June 25. He will continue