Perspective : India-China Border Dispute | 04 January, 2023

Summary

In this episode of 'Perspective' on Sunset TV, host Tinaja discusses India's strained relations with China, focusing on the recent comments by India's External Affairs Minister, who criticized China for unilaterally attempting to change the Line of Actual Control. The panel, including Professor Sanjay Bhardwaj, Major General Sivaj, and former Ambassador Prabhude, analyzes the minister's remarks, the history of border agreements, and China's aggressive actions. They also delve into India's preparedness and the broader geopolitical implications, including China's regional dominance ambitions and the impact on South Asian countries.

Takeaways

• 😠 The Indian External Affairs Minister, Jay Shankar, has criticized China for unilaterally trying to change the Line of Actual Control (LAC), indicating a disregard for past agreements and contributing to border tensions.
• 🏗️ China has been accused of building up military forces and infrastructure along the border, contrary to the agreements not to amass forces in border areas, leading to a strained relationship with India.
• 🗣️ The minister's remarks highlight that the responsibility for de-escalation lies with China, as it is they who have been escalating tensions by moving troops and building up along the LAC.
• 🛑 A major clash between Indian and Chinese soldiers in the Tawang sector of Arunachal Pradesh has occurred recently, which is a clear sign of the ongoing conflict and the urgency of the situation.
• 🤔 The panelists on the show discuss the significance of the minister's remarks, suggesting that China's actions are part of a broader pattern of aggressive foreign policy and a desire to dominate the region.
• 🔄 China has a history of breaching trust with India, repeatedly violating agreements and treaties regarding the border, which has led to a breakdown in relations.
• 🛤️ India is ramping up its border infrastructure and military capabilities to match China's, including road building, bridge construction, and the development of a logistics supply system.
• 🚨 India is shifting its focus from the western border to the northern border, recognizing the growing threat from China and preparing for potential conflicts.
• 💪 India's military is developing a strong stance, with the establishment of new strike corps and the repositioning of forces to be able to counter any Chinese aggression effectively.
• 🌐 The discussion also touches on China's broader strategic interests in South Asia, including energy resources and infrastructure projects, which could lead to further regional tensions.
• 🕊️ Despite the current strained relations, there is an acknowledgment that both India and China need to work together for the betterment of the region, but this requires trust and peaceful coexistence.

Q & A

What was the main point of External Affairs Minister Jay Shankar's remarks on China?

Minister Jay Shankar criticized China for unilaterally trying to change the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and not adhering to border agreements with India, which has led to a tense situation between the two countries.

What did the external affairs minister emphasize regarding the responsibility of de-escalating border tensions?

The minister emphasized that the onus lies on China to de-escalate border tensions, as it is China that has been responsible for escalating them by amassing forces and building military infrastructure along the LAC.

What does the script suggest about China's approach to border agreements?

The script suggests that China has a track record of breaching trust and not following the understanding and agreements that have been signed with India, leading to a strained relationship.

How has China's behavior been described in relation to the border situation?

China's behavior has been described as aggressive and untrustworthy, with the country disregarding border pacts and increasing military presence along the border.

What was the context of the recent clash between Indian and Chinese soldiers in the Tawang sector of Arunachal Pradesh?

The clash occurred amidst a backdrop of increasing tensions due to China's actions along the LAC, including the building of military infrastructure and forces, which goes against previous agreements with India.

What is the significance of the external affairs minister's remarks in the context of India-China relations?

The minister's remarks highlight the current state of India-China relations, which are at a low ebb due to the border tensions, and underscore India's position that China needs to take the initiative to de-escalate the situation.

What is the view of the panel on China's intentions towards India?

The panel suggests that China's intentions towards India are not friendly, with China using various means to pressurize India, including strengthening ties with Pakistan and building infrastructure along the border.

How does the panel discuss India's response to China's actions along the border?

The panel discusses India's response as being prepared and proactive, with India building up its infrastructure, modernizing its military capabilities, and taking a firm stand against China's aggressive actions.

What does the script imply about the future of India-China relations?

The script implies that the future of India-China relations is uncertain and will be influenced by how China addresses the border tensions and whether it chooses to adhere to agreements and maintain peace along the LAC.

What are the broader implications of the border tensions for regional stability and security?

The border tensions have broader implications for regional stability and security, as they could escalate into larger conflicts and affect the balance of power in South Asia and the Indo-Pacific region.

How does the script address the role of infrastructure development in the border tensions?

The script addresses the role of infrastructure development as a point of contention, with China objecting to India's development of infrastructure along the border and using it as a means to exert pressure.