India on Thursday reiterated its insistence that “early and complete disengagement of Chinese troops along the Line of Actual Control”, as decided by their special representatives last month, is a prerequisite for smooth and overall development of bilateral relations. Responding to questions, the MEA spokesperson said, “India remains committed to this objective. We also expect that the Chinese side will work with us sincerely for complete disengagement and de escalation and full restoration of peace and tranquillity in the border areas.” As Chinese troops refuse to move back, particularly from the Pangong Tso and Depsang areas in east Ladakh, India’s insistence on a full disengagement puts the focus back on the kind of aggression China has been exhibiting in its neighbourhood. Meanwhile, some reports indicated there may be some kind of a rethink among Beijing’s own hardliners about how China’s ‘wolf-warrior’ policies may be taking it towards greater isolation.