In a move that has reignited tensions between India and China, Beijing has recently announced the renaming of several places in Arunachal Pradesh, a north eastern state claimed by both countries. However, India has swiftly rejected China's decision, reaffirming its sovereignty over the region.
The Chinese Ministry of Civil Affairs issued its fourth list of standardized geographical names in Zangnan, the Chinese term for Arunachal Pradesh, asserting its claim over the territory. Beijing contends that the region is part of south Tibet, which India vehemently disputes.
India's rejection of China's renaming efforts underscores its firm stance on the matter. New Delhi maintains that assigning "invented" names does not alter the reality that Arunachal Pradesh is, and will always be, an integral part of India.
This isn't the first time such a dispute has arisen. In April 2023, India reacted strongly when China released its third list of standardized names for 11 places in Arunachal Pradesh. The ongoing territorial dispute between the two countries has remained a contentious issue for decades.
The India-China border dispute encompasses various contentious areas, including Aksai Chin in the western sector and Arunachal Pradesh in the eastern sector. Aksai Chin holds strategic significance due to its proximity to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), while Arunachal Pradesh is of crucial importance to India's north-eastern region.
The lack of a clear demarcation along the border has further exacerbated tensions. The Line of Actual Control (LAC), established after the 1962 Sino-Indian War, remains a subject of contention between the two nations.
Military standoffs have punctuated the history of the border dispute, with incidents such as the 1962 war and recent clashes in regions like Doklam and Ladakh. Both countries have made efforts to manage tensions through various agreements and protocols.
India has responded to China's aggressive measures by bolstering its global strategic alliances and enhancing its border infrastructure. Initiatives like the QUAD and I2U2 seek to counterbalance China's influence in the region. Moreover, India's Necklace of Diamonds strategy aims to strengthen its naval presence and diplomatic ties, countering China's military network.
Efforts to settle the border dispute have included agreements like the Shimla Agreement of 1914 and the Panchsheel Agreement of 1954. Despite these agreements, tensions persist, highlighting the need for ongoing dialogue and cooperation.
Looking ahead, India must continue investing in border infrastructure and modernizing its armed forces to effectively manage border incidents. Moreover, fortifying alliances with like-minded nations and diversifying economic ties will be crucial steps in mitigating Chinese assertiveness in territorial disputes.
