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27th June 2024 (11 Topics)

It’s time for India to reclaim its voice on Tibet

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Context

A U.S. Congressional delegation's visit to Dharamshala and their public rally supporting Tibet's freedom has brought attention to India's stance on the Tibet issue and its relations with China and the U.S.

U.S. Congressional Delegation's Visit and Its Implications:

  • Timing and Purpose: The delegation arrived shortly after the passage of the 'Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act' in the U.S. Congress.
  • Public Rally: For the first time in recent years, a public rally of this kind was held in India, with U.S. officials making strong statements against China's Tibet policy.
  • Indian Government's Response: India's External Affairs Minister and Prime Minister met with the delegation, indicating a considered decision by New Delhi.

India's Tibet Policy and Its Challenges:

  • Historical Stance: India has offered refuge to the Dalai Lama and Tibetan refugees since 1959, without publicly articulating concerns about their treatment.
  • Policy Evolution: Since 2010, India has stopped articulating a 'One China' policy due to China's actions against India's territorial integrity.
  • Balancing Act: India maintains a delicate balance, recognizing the Dalai Lama as a spiritual leader while not officially recognizing the Tibetan Government in Exile.

Concerns Over India's Position:

  • Perceived Weakness: Allowing U.S. politicians to take center stage on the Tibet issue in India could be interpreted as a sign of weakness rather than strength.
  • Loss of Control: India risks losing control of its carefully calibrated foreign policy narrative on Tibet.
  • Diminishing Role: India's space as an important external figure in the Tibet issue may be diminished by growing U.S.-China contestations.
Way Forward for India:
  • Reclaiming Voice: India needs to move decisively to reclaim its own voice and pace in its policy narrative on Tibet.
  • Future Considerations: New Delhi must consider the future of its Tibet policy, especially regarding the question of the Dalai Lama's succession.
  • Strategic Balance: India should maintain its strategic autonomy while balancing its relations with China and the U.S. on the Tibet issue.
UPSC Mains Questions:

Q. Analyze India's evolving policy on Tibet since 1959 and discuss how recent geopolitical developments have impacted this stance.

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