Even by Modi’s penchant for springing surprises, his China statement is a stunner. By claiming China hasn't encroached on Indian territory, he might be offering China a face-saver to live up to its understanding with India to withdraw its forces from the areas they infiltrated...

Or Modi is effectively surrendering Indian claims to the vantage locations that the PLA has occupied since late April. Take Galwan Valley: In a war, PLA — from this strategic valley — could cut through northern Ladakh and physically link up with Pakistan to put India under siege.

Modi is likely seeking to save his own face. The Doklam standoff showed that, as long as Modi appears "strong" and claims a tactical victory, China can have its way. This explains why the entire Doklam—except for the 2017 standoff site in one corner—is now in PLA’s firm control.

Make no mistake: Modi's new statement is grist for the Chinese propaganda mill. As China ramps up infrastructure construction in the newly grabbed areas, it will use Modi's own words to justify its encroachments and to say that Indian soldiers illegally entered Chinese territory.