India, Jan. 13 -- China has once again reignited tensions with India by firmly restating its territorial claim over the Shaksgam Valley in Jammu and Kashmir and defending infrastructure construction in the disputed region. China dismissed India's objections, insisting that its activities in the area are legitimate and beyond question. The renewed exchange has brought the long-running Shaksgam Valley dispute back into sharp focus.

Let's understand what the Shaksgam Valley conflict is, China's stance amid India's criticism, India's position, and what the row is really about.

Responding to India's objections to recent Chinese infrastructure activity, China strongly defended its position. China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said,...