Xi Jinping's Military Purge: General Zhao Zongqi Dismissed
General Zhao Zongqi, who led PLA operations against India, has been removed in a significant military shake-up by Xi Jinping.
Zhao Zongqi dismissed from key political roles.
Part of Xi's ongoing military purge affecting 101 officers.
Zhao commanded PLA during Doklam and Galwan clashes.
In a sweeping move, China has dismissed General Zhao Zongqi from his influential political positions, including his role in the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC). Zhao, who commanded the PLA's Western Theatre during the 2017 Doklam standoff and the 2020 Galwan Valley clash with India, is seen as a significant figure in Xi Jinping's extensive military purge, which has already seen over 100 senior officers removed or go missing.
Zhao's removal, announced by state media, comes amid heightened scrutiny of military leadership in China, with other senior generals also being dismissed for alleged violations. The absence of a clear explanation for Zhao's ousting has led to speculation about his involvement in the controversial Galwan operation, which resulted in the deaths of 20 Indian soldiers and is believed to have been authorized by him to 'teach India a lesson'. This incident underscores the ongoing tensions between China and India along their disputed borders.
