In the context of recent physical scuffle between Indian and Chinese soldiers across LAC near Tawang sector of Arunachal Pradesh, a video of soldiers punching each other is being widely shared on social media claiming that it shows the recent clash. Let’s verify the claim made in the post.
Claim: Video of physical scuffle between Indian and Chinese soldiers at the LAC near Tawang sector in December 2022.
Fact: The same video was uploaded on YouTube on 23 June 2020. As per video description, it shows a brawl between Indian and Chinese soldiers in May 2020. As per the Government of India, the Tawang Clash took place on 09 December 2022. Hence, the claim made in the post is MISLEADING.
Reverse image search using relevant keywords led us to a similar video uploaded on YouTube on 23 June 2020. Title and the description of the video state it as visuals of brawl between Indian and Chinese soldiers during border dispute in May 2020.
Comparison of these two videos confirm that both the videos are same.
Talking about the recent physical scuffle in Parliament, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, “On 09 December 2022, PLA troops tried to transgress the LAC in Yangtse area of Tawang Sector and unilaterally change the status quo. The Chinese attempt was contested by our troops in a firm and resolute manner. The ensuing face-off led to a physical scuffle in which the Indian Army bravely prevented the PLA from transgressing into our territory and compelled them to return to their posts. The scuffle led to injuries to a few personnel on both sides. Due to timely intervention of Indian military commanders, PLA soldiers went back to their locations. The Chinese side was asked to refrain from such actions and maintain peace and tranquility along the border”. Though we couldn’t independently verify the exact time and location of the incident, the viral video is older than 2 years and is not related to recent Tawang Clash between Indian Army and PLA.
To sum it up, 2-year-old video is shared as recent physical scuffle between Indian and Chinese Army in Tawang sector.
