Amid the India-China tensions, one story that has gained a lot of traction was the story of seven boys who had gotten lost in Arunachal Pradesh.
It had been reported that the boys had gone hunting into some unexplored forests and had been ‘abducted’ by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army on gun-point.
Now the PLA has returned to India.
In a statement made by a defence spokesperson, “Individuals will now be quarantined for 14 days as per COVID-19 protocol and will thereafter be handed over to their family members.”
He also said, “Three such incidents took place in the current year in Upper Subansiri and West Siang District including the latest one. All such individuals were brought back home safely after consistent efforts and coordination by the Indian Army in the past.”
All the 5 Indian youths from Arunachal Pradesh who were received at Kibithu by our Army from PLA are fit and fine. However, they will be quarantined for a specified period.
I also thank Raksha Mantri @rajnathsingh ji for the concern he had shown. https://t.co/Wpg3pCkObz pic.twitter.com/1IpApYkxZz— Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) September 12, 2020
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Union Minister Kiren Rijiju have expressed his gratitude towards the Indian Government and Army for making the boys’ return possible.
China's PLA has handed over our 5 boys to our side here at Kibitu area. I appreciate Indian Army for the smooth return of our citizens. I thank Indian Army Chief, his office and the local Commanders for constantly following up the matter and regularly updating me on the matter. pic.twitter.com/OtUKEa0kaR
— Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) September 12, 2020
