While India has always had conflicts with Pakistan, the Modi government has worsened relations with other neighbouring countries as well. India is currently embroiled in an intense stand-off with China at the disputed border region in Ladakh.
In an unusual incident, 20 Indian soldiers were killed and scores were injured in violent brawl on a steep ridge. No shots were fired but the altercation saw many soldiers fall off the terrain into the river valley. This is the deadliest conflict between the two countries ever since 1962 Sino-India War. Now India has picked a fight with the goliath once again which may come to haunt the Modi government.
India and China have traded barbs over the past few weeks over the incident. The foreign ministers of both countries have agreed to de-escalate the situation but continue to issue rhetorical statements. The Indian media has been called for a complete of Chinese products and there have been protests.
India has even strained relations with Nepal, a small country with no military power. The parliament of Nepal has approved a new map that includes areas controlled by India. Both countries also have a border dispute ever since India built a road in the disputed region that leads to China. India has opened several fronts after provoking other countries.
Pakistan has faced the worst of Indian provocations including numerous ceasefire violations and accusations of terrorism. The situation might be different with China which has vowed to protect its territorial sovereignty. An escalation of the conflict, at worst a full blown war, could be disastrous for both countries and the region and the only solution would be ease tensions.
The recent standoff has been attributed to India’s unilateral decision to revoke the autonomous status of Kashmir and alter the demography by create a separate Ladakh region. India has built several infrastructure projects in the region, infuriating China which wants to develop adjoining Tibet area. The conflict are not just political but economic and the quest for regional dominance.
The conflict must be resolved as the region cannot afford war. The Modi government should realise the gravity of the situation and shun usual jingoism. Both neighbours should address the border disputes and other issues in a peaceful manner to avert a greater crisis.
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