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Chinese Expansion: Reasons behind claim over North-Eastern India

In the recent years videos have surfaced on the internet showing dispute between both the countries at different locations. Here we discuss about one of them

Introduction

India has a legal right over Arunachal Pradesh, as recognized by international agreements and its administration since independence. The McMahon Line, established in 1914, demarcates this boundary. India’s sovereignty is supported by historical governance, democratic integration, and international recognition, contrasting China’s claims based on historical ties to Tibet.

Territorial Claims

China claims Arunachal Pradesh, calling it “South Tibet,” due to historical and political reasons. The dispute centers on the McMahon Line, set during the 1914 Simla Convention between British India and Tibet. Chinese officials were there, but China did not agree to the line. China argues that Arunachal Pradesh, especially the Tawang region, has always been part of Tibet.

This claim is key to the ongoing border dispute between China and India. For China, controlling this area is about more than just land. It is also about supporting its claims over Tibet. China sees Indian control of Arunachal Pradesh as a challenge to its authority over Tibet, which it views as a vital part of its territory.

Strategic Importance

Northeast India, especially Arunachal Pradesh, is very important for India. This region is a key link between India and Southeast Asia. It is close to important Chinese areas like Tibet (captured) and Yunnan. For India, control over Arunachal Pradesh is crucial. It helps India keep a strategic military position in the Himalayas. The tough terrain and high altitude make it challenging but useful for defense.

If China controlled this area, it could affect India’s northeastern states and disrupt India’s connections with Southeast Asia. This would hurt India’s Act East Policy, which aims to build stronger ties with Southeast Asian countries. Therefore, Arunachal Pradesh’s legal status as part of India is vital for national security and regional influence.

Water Resources

Northeast India has several major rivers that start in Tibet and flow into India. The Brahmaputra is one of the most important, providing water to millions in India and Bangladesh. Arunachal Pradesh is crucial for controlling these water resources. If China controlled this area, it could influence the flow of these rivers by building dams and diverting water. This could cause water security problems for India.

Controlling these rivers would give China power in talks with India and could be used to pressure India. Water security is a critical issue for India, as it needs a steady water supply for its large population and farming needs. Therefore, India’s control and administration of Arunachal Pradesh are essential for its water security and overall stability.

Geopolitical Influence

Expanding influence in Northeast India would greatly boost China’s power in South Asia. This region has been a long-standing issue between China and India. Control over it would allow China to weaken India’s influence in the area. This shift in power would affect regional security and stability.

If China controlled Arunachal Pradesh, it would gain a strategic advantage and send a strong message to nearby countries about its dominance and resolve in claiming territory. This could lead to changes in regional alliances, with countries becoming more cautious in their dealings with China. Therefore, India’s legal ownership and administration of Arunachal Pradesh are vital for maintaining its influence and ensuring regional stability.

National Security

From a national security perspective, India’s control of Northeast India reduces perceived threats from China. This region acts as a buffer zone, preventing any Chinese military advantage or advances. For India, keeping this buffer zone is crucial to deter any potential military threat from China. The rugged and mountainous terrain of Arunachal Pradesh provides a natural barrier, making it a strategic defensive stronghold.

The region is also close to the Siliguri Corridor, known as the Chicken’s Neck, which connects India’s northeastern states with the rest of the country. Control over this area is important for India’s strategic advantage in any potential conflict. Thus, India’s legal ownership and administration of Arunachal Pradesh are vital for its national security.

Economic Interests

The economic interests in Northeast India are substantial. The region is rich in natural resources, including valuable minerals, forests, and hydropower potential. Control over these resources could benefit China’s economy, providing raw materials for its industries and supporting its energy needs.

The development of infrastructure projects, such as roads, railways, and dams, in the region would not only facilitate the extraction and transport of these resources but also enhance connectivity with Tibet and other parts of China. This economic integration would further solidify China’s presence in the region and contribute to its broader economic strategy of resource security and regional development. Additionally, the development of this region could open up new markets for Chinese goods and services, further boosting economic ties and interdependence with neighboring regions.

Conclusion

China’s interest in capturing Northeast India, particularly Arunachal Pradesh, is driven by a complex interplay of historical, strategic, geopolitical, national security, and economic factors. The territorial claims are deeply rooted in historical arguments and the broader Sino-Indian boundary dispute. The strategic importance of the region, given its location and difficult terrain, provides significant military advantages. Control over vital water resources gives China strategic leverage over India.

Geopolitical influence in the region would weaken India’s position and shift the balance of power. National security concerns drive the need for a buffer zone against potential threats. Finally, the economic potential of the region, with its rich natural resources, aligns with China’s broader economic interests. Understanding these motivations helps explain the ongoing and contentious nature of the border dispute between China and India in this strategically vital region.