File photo of Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan today attacked the Narendra Modi government over growing tension on the Indo-China border, asking whether absence of a full-time defence minister is the "cause" behind such incidents.
"Is the absence of a full-time defence minister the cause of growing tensions on the border?" Mr Chavan told a press conference in Mumbai.
Expressing concern over recent intrusions by Chinese civilians and troops into the Indian side on the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the resulting stand off, the chief minister referred to reports of a tactical retreat by Indian troops from a border post.
"Today's media reports say there was a tactical retreat by our troops from one border post. The Army chief also cancelled his foreign tour. The Centre should clarify on this and reassure people that the country's sovereignty will be protected at any cost," Mr Chavan said.