India must establish clear policy on LAC border incidents: Retired general

A retired senior military officer has underscored the need for India to develop a comprehensive information policy governing how border incidents with China are communicated to the public. Lt Gen Rakesh Sharma, who previously commanded the 14 Corps responsible for operations along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), emphasized that repeated confrontations in the border region demand a more organized approach to official messaging.

The retired general highlighted the challenge posed by the velocity of information dissemination on social media platforms, which can amplify unverified accounts and create public confusion during sensitive security situations. Without a clear, coordinated communication strategy, he suggested, India risks ceding narrative control during critical moments along the contested frontier.

Sharma's remarks reflect broader concerns within security circles about managing information flow during border tensions. The LAC, which demarcates territory between India and China, has witnessed multiple skirmishes and standoffs in recent years, each generating significant domestic and international attention through digital channels.

Establishing a formal information policy, according to the retired officer, would enable the government to provide timely, accurate updates that inform the public while protecting operational security and diplomatic interests. Such a framework could also help counter misinformation and maintain strategic clarity during periods of heightened tension in the region.