Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu recently made a strong political statement: “We do not share a border with China; we share a border with Tibet.” This statement reflects a growing sentiment in India that Tibet’s original identity should not be forgotten, even under Chinese control.
According to Khandu, Arunachal Pradesh borders three nations: Bhutan (150 km), Myanmar (550 km), and Tibet (over 1000 km). He argued that Tibet was an independent entity, and historically, India never directly bordered China. This contradicts China’s claim over Arunachal as “South Tibet.”
Khandu also urged the Government of India to award the Bharat Ratna to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. This proposal received praise in India but drew sharp criticism from the Chinese Embassy in India, which warned against making “irresponsible” remarks.
The issue deepened when the Dalai Lama announced that his reincarnation will not be decided by China but by the Gaden Phodrang Trust. This move cuts China out of the process, intensifying the political and religious tensions between the two nations.
Many speculate the next Dalai Lama may be born in India, likely in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh. This would make India the spiritual center of Tibetan resistance, putting it in direct conflict with Beijing’s plans to control the Buddhist leadership.
The United States has reinstated multi-million-dollar funding for Tibetan causes. Together with India and Taiwan, a subtle international alliance is emerging to support Tibet’s autonomy and human rights.
Only three countries officially wished the Dalai Lama on his birthday recently: India, the US, and Taiwan. This silent solidarity is seen as a diplomatic stance that counters China’s influence without open confrontation.
However, India must tread carefully. Foreign policy should rise above internal politics. When dealing with a powerful and aggressive neighbor like China, national unity is critical. Left-wing or right-wing labels must not divide the national voice.
Russia, as part of the RIC group (Russia, India, China), may try to mediate. But ideological and territorial conflicts around Tibet could be too deep to resolve diplomatically in the short term.
Past Indian governments, including Nehru and Vajpayee, have made diplomatic concessions that China now uses to pressure India. But the public mood and political resolve in India are changing. Tibet is no longer just a humanitarian cause it’s becoming a strategic card.
In the next few years, the Tibet issue will take center stage in global geopolitics. India and the US, with support from Taiwan and perhaps the EU, are expected to push for Tibetan rights more openly. China will respond with aggressive countermeasures through propaganda, media, and economic leverage.
The Tibet issue is not just regional; it’s a test of moral responsibility, freedom, and international law.
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