Author: Agencies
Publication: The Pioneer
Date: November 12, 2006
The army officials guarding Siachen are opposing
the issue of demilitarising the glacier in the course of talks of resolving
the confrontation between India and Pakistan on the world's highest battlefield
issue.
"We have 12 strategically important peaks
under our surveillance on the glacier. In addition, we have the advantage
in Nubra and Shyok valleys. If we vacate the glacier, our position will be
on the wane," Brigadier Om Prakash, the commander of the unit responsible
for guarding Siachen, told a group of journalists here.
He said Siachen is a vital point for the defence
of the Ladakh region and if the glacier is demilitarised, the enemy would
be able to dictate the terms to New Delhi in this strategic region.
"India's hold on Siachen is a great disadvantage
to Pakistan and blunts its expansionist design," Prakash said.
Indian troops currently hold the Saltoro ridge
that overlooks Pakistani positions, giving them a military advantage. It is,
however, more difficult to supply the Indian positions, which are largely
dependent on aerial support.
Since four of the world's eight highest peaks
are located in this region, mountaineers from across the globe come there
for expeditions and bring in foreign exchange for the country's exchequer.
"Besides, the area is a 5,000 sq km water reservoir which no one can
ignore," Prakash said.