Finger 4 and Finger 8 are specific geographical points, often referring to prominent spurs or ridges, located in the disputed Pangong Tso lake region of Ladakh, marking significant lines of control and claims in the ongoing India-China border dispute. These "fingers" are part of a series of eight such features, labelled 1 to 8, that extend into the lake.
Understanding the "Fingers" in Pangong Tso
The term "fingers" describes a series of eight mountainous spurs or ridges that project into the northern bank of Pangong Tso. These topographical features have become critical markers in the demarcation of territories claimed by both India and China, particularly concerning the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
Finger 4: Foxhole Point or Foxhole Ridge
Finger 4 is a crucial geographical feature that holds significant strategic importance.
- Alternate Names: It is also known as Foxhole Point or Foxhole Ridge.
- Significance for India: India maintains control of the area up to the western side of Finger 4. This point represents a key line of control for India in the region.
- Location: Situated along the northern bank of Pangong Tso, it is a prominent ridge that defines a part of the disputed zone.
Finger 8: India's Claim Line
Finger 8 marks the easternmost of these eight fingers and is central to India's territorial claims in the Pangong Tso area.
- Significance for India: India asserts that the Line of Actual Control (LAC) runs east of Finger 8, indicating its claim over the entire stretch up to this point. This distinguishes it from China's claims, which reportedly place the LAC closer to Finger 2.
- Strategic Importance: For India, Finger 8 represents its perception of the de facto border and the extent of its legitimate territory in this sensitive region.
Summary of Fingers 4 and 8
Here's a quick overview of these two critical points:
| Feature | Alternate Names | Significance (India's Perspective) |
|---|---|---|
| Finger 4 | Foxhole Point, Foxhole Ridge | India controls the area up to its western side; a line of control. |
| Finger 8 | N/A | India claims the Line of Actual Control (LAC) runs east of it. |
The demarcation around these fingers remains a point of contention, contributing to the broader complexities of the India-China border dispute in Ladakh. For more context on the region, refer to information about Pangong Tso.
