Chinese Aggression on the India-China Border
Recent incidents along the China-India border have highlighted significant vulnerabilities that threaten India's territorial integrity and sovereignty.
Key Developments
- The Chinese government announced the construction of a dam on the Yarlung Zangbo river (Brahmaputra).
- Creation of two new counties in north-eastern Ladakh by China.Implications
- Potential reduction in water and silt for downstream countries, affecting agriculture, fisheries, and biodiversity in India and Bangladesh.
- Risk of devastating floods during the monsoon season or geopolitical tensions.
India's Response
- India is investing $1 billion in 12 hydropower stations in Arunachal Pradesh.
- Monitoring the situation and preparing to safeguard national interests.
China's Strategic Moves
- Ongoing strategy of cartographic aggression to assert control over disputed territories.
- Standardization of 11 locations in Arunachal Pradesh in recent years.
International law does not recognize territorial claims based solely on cartographic assertions. Effective administrative control and sovereignty are essential for ownership of contested territories.
Broader Regional Impact
- South Asian countries like Nepal and Bhutan also face Chinese territorial encroachments.
- China's unilateral actions on transboundary rivers threaten water security in the region.
Recommended Approaches
- India should take the lead in fostering a collective response to China's actions.
- A unified strategy involving regional forums and enhanced diplomatic coordination is crucial.
A comprehensive strategy involving diplomatic engagement and regional cooperation is essential for safeguarding India's sovereignty and regional security.
Rahul M. Lad, Assistant Professor, Department of Geography, JSPM University, Pune
