Foreign affairs specialist Robinder Sachdeva has drawn attention to China’s growing authority over the Aksai Chin region, especially in light of its most recent administrative actions. He pointed out on January 4, 2025, that China had created two new counties in the Hotan prefecture, which included areas in Ladakh that India had claimed. China has previously constructed substantial military infrastructure, including as roads and camps to facilitate force deployments, in the disputed region, and this administrative reorganization is perceived as a calculated move to strengthen its position there.
On December 27, 2024, China declared the establishment of He’an and Hekang counties. These counties represent a continuous attempt to further incorporate Aksai Chin into Chinese governance systems and are meant to improve administrative authority over the area.
Significant improvements, such as enlarged roads and contemporary military camps, have been visible in Aksai Chin thanks to satellite images. For the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) to support its operations and improve its logistical capabilities in the area, this infrastructure is essential.
India has responded to these developments by formally protesting China’s actions and stating that they do not believe China’s claims over Aksai Chin are legitimate. Indian authorities stress that rather than pursuing a diplomatic solution, China is still attempting to maintain a belligerent posture with these actions.According to Sacheva’s view, China’s activities are part of a larger plan to keep the “frozen conflict” with India going while also bolstering its military might and territorial claims. In addition to strengthening its control over Aksai Chin, China is demonstrating its intention to maintain this presence for the foreseeable future by establishing new administrative divisions and building new infrastructure.
India-China ties, which have been tense since the military standoff that started in May 2020, are still under stress as a result of this circumstance. The possibility of additional war continues to be a concern for regional stability as both countries negotiate these intricate dynamics.
