Satellite images show Chinese outposts within Bhutan, matter of concern for India as well
The talks between Bhutan and China held in October 2023 to formally demarcate their borders has not prevented Beijing from continuing illegal construction in north Bhutan's Jakarlung Valley. This is taking place despite the fact that in 1998, China had inked a formal agreement with Bhutan to not to alter the status quo in disputed areas.
Jakarlung lies only 50km from Bhutan’s eastern border with Arunachal Pradesh in India. Jakarlung adjoins Beyul Khenpajong, an important cultural and religious area for Bhutanese. In fact, the royal Bhutanese family traces its ancestral heritage to Beyul Khenpajong.
Satellite images available in public domain after the border talks have shown China’s scaled-up presence in Jakarlung over the last two years. At present, one can see ongoing construction