Difference between LoC and LaC: Since the removal of Article 370, Pakistan has been regularly doing heavy firing on the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB).
Prior to this, Indian and Chinese soldiers are fighting at the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
In geopolitics and international relations, there are several terms that often surface in discussions surrounding border disputes and conflicts.
India, though a peace-loving country has some border-related disputes with its neighbors China and Pakistan. Sometimes these border issues led to the escalation of war-like situations between these countries.
As a citizen of India, we must know the borders of our country and the fundamental cause of disputes with neighboring countries.
Before discussing the difference between loc and loc, we must know what these terms stand for what is International Border (IB)?
Introduction: Difference between LoC and LaC
These lines play a significant role in defining boundaries between countries and have been a point of contention in various regions around the world.
In addition, the term “IB,” or International Border, also holds relevance in this context.
This article aims to explore the key difference between LoC and LaC. And shedding light on the nuances of these demarcation lines and their implications on international relations.
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Countries demarcate their borders using certain terms and lines to establish boundaries and maintain territorial integrity. LoC and LaC are two such lines, while IB serves a different purpose altogether.
Understanding LoC:
The Line of Control (LoC) is a demarcation line that separates the regions of Jammu and Kashmir between India and Pakistan. It came into existence after the Indo-Pakistani War of 1947-48. Neither country recognizes the LoC as an international border. Both countries maintain military forces along the de facto border.
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Understanding LaC:
The Line of Actual Control (LaC) is a demarcation line that separates the Indian-controlled territory from the Chinese-controlled territory. The Line of Actual Control (LAC) cuts through the territory in Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Uttarakhand.
LAC is a followed by India, but China keeps disturbing the borders with its exapansion policies.
Difference Between LoC and LaC
While both are demarcation lines, there are significant differences between them. The key difference between LoC and LaC can be summarized as follows:
| Factors | Line of Control (LOC) | Line of Actual Control(LAC) |
| Location | The LoC separates India and Pakistan in the region of Jammu and Kashmir | whereas the LaC separates India and China in multiple regions, including Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh. |
| Recognition | The Line of Control (LoC) is a military control line between the India-Pakistan, and does not recognized as an international border. | whereas the LaC is also not an internationally recognized border. |
| Agreements | The LoC has been subject to several ceasefire agreements between India and Pakistan, such as the Simla Agreement of 1972. | In contrast, there is no specific agreement defining the LaC, leading to occasional border disputes and tensions between India and China. |
| Deployment | Along the LoC, both India and Pakistan maintain military forces in a confrontational position. | On the other hand, along the LaC, both India and China deploy their military forces in close proximity to each other, resulting in occasional face-offs. |
Significance of LoC and LaC
Both of these hold immense strategic and geopolitical significance. The LoC, being a highly sensitive and contested border, has been a focal point of conflicts between India and Pakistan.
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It has witnessed numerous ceasefire violations and sporadic exchanges of fire. Similarly, the LaC has also been a site of tensions and standoffs between India and China, most notably in recent years.
Understanding IB
In contrast to LoC and LaC, the International Border (IB) represents the recognized border between two countries. It is an official boundary that separates one country from another.
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The Radcliffe Line, drawn in 1947 to demarcate the partition of British India, now serves as the International Border between India and Pakistan.
Difference Between LoC and LaC, IB explained
The difference between loc and Lac and IB are as follows:
| Factors | International Border(IB) | LAC & LoC |
| Recognition | The IB is recognized as the official border between two countries. | LAC is an International recognized borderline between India-China, whereas the LoC is not internationally recognized border. |
| Purpose | The IB serves as a boundary between two sovereign nations, facilitating trade, movement of people, and diplomatic relations | Conversely, the LoC and LaC mark regions of territorial disputes and military deployment. |
| Tensions | While tensions can arise along the IB, they are usually resolved through diplomatic channels. | However, the LoC and LaC have witnessed more frequent confrontations and border disputes. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the key difference between LoC and LaC, and IB is vital to grasp the complexities of international borders and territorial disputes.
The LoC separates India and Pakistan in the region of Jammu and Kashmir, while the LaC separates India and China in disputed border areas. On the other hand, the IB represents the recognized boundary between two countries.
Each of these demarcation lines serves different purposes and has varying degrees of recognition, which significantly impacts geopolitical dynamics.
FAQ’S – Difference Between Loc, LAC and IB
Is the LoC a recognized international border?
No, the LoC is not recognized as an international border. It serves as a de facto border between India and Pakistan in the region of Jammu and Kashmir.
What are some notable agreements related to the LoC?
The Simla Agreement of 1972 is one of the significant agreements between India and Pakistan concerning the LoC
Why is the LaC a disputed border?
The LaC is a disputed border between India and China due to conflicting territorial claims in regions like Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh.
What is the purpose of the IB?
The International Border (IB) serves as the official boundary between two countries, facilitating trade, movement of people, and diplomatic relations.
Have there been any major conflicts along the LoC and LaC?
Both the LoC and LaC have witnessed significant tensions and conflicts between India, Pakistan, and China, leading to occasional skirmishes and standoffs.
