India and China, two of the most powerful nations, have been in a conflicting situation for decades now. The 3,488-kilometre border between the two is not just a dividing line, but one that has been significant in shaping South Asian geopolitics. It is the reason for the territorial quarrel. The tension between the two has seen its ups and downs, with escalation in 2020 during the Galwan Valley clash. However, the situation saw a reversal in the military agreements of 2024. This diplomatic agreement is a hope of fraternity between the two nations.

What is the dispute all about?

The dispute between the two countries can be traced back to the colonial period. It is based on three main areas- the Aksai Chin, Arunachal Pradesh and the Sikkim sector. During the Simla Convention of 1914, the McMahon line was drawn between British India and Tibet, which put the northeastern region of Arunachal Pradesh under India’s control. But, China claims Tibet as its integral part and does not respect the line that was drawn in its absence. 

On the other hand, the uninhabited Aksai Chin on the Western part is another conflicting factor. Originally, it was part of the Princely State of Jammu & Kashmir but eventually came under China’s control in the 1950’s. Then, both nations claimed it as their own, which was also the reason behind the Sino-Indian War of 1962. China’s launch of a military offensive during this war over both the disputed regions further led to mistrust and disputes.

Galwan Valley Clash: The Escalation Point

In June of 2020, both India and China came face-to-face in Ladakh’s Galwan Valley. This resulted in the death of 20 Indian soldiers and an unrecognized number on the Chinese end. This critical fight was a reminder that the dormancy in the past few years was just the calm before the chaos. First time in decades there was bloodshed during a chain of events along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). 

The Twist in the Picture

Amidst the tension between India and China, new patrol protocols of 2024 between the two have gained attention. According to these, both sides have realized the need to de-escalate the situation. This mutual agreement will lead to reduced engagement and increased communication between the commanders. It will also take care of the reduction of unexpected clashes on either side. Renewal of peace and normalcy remains the aim of this step.

By agreeing on matters mutually, both India and China depict that there is maturity in avoiding conflict and seeking peace. But this does not mean that any of them is blinded by the situation. Both are building infrastructure along the borders of the LAC. This conveys they are preparing themselves for any future unexpected escalation.

Will the dispute be Over?

While the recent diplomatic agreements spark hope, a total resolution of the dispute looks far from attainable. This is due to more reasons than one.

First and foremost, there are major trust issues between India and China, owing to their history. 

Secondly, the Line of Actual Control (LAC) is not a formally defined line. It is rather their own perception of the border. Due to differences in opinion of its placement, both experience frequent attacks and monitoring.

Thirdly, both the countries are extremely sovereign and nationalism is of utmost importance to them. Any attack or threat to nationality causes rage amongst their population. So, a perceived loss of territory is unacceptable amongst their people. Therefore, both have strong foreign policies making any compromise unlikely. 

So, while the conflict is deeply rooted, it is not impossible to take it out of the system. But, to do so would require some serious and strategic efforts. While both have agreed on CBM (Confidence Building Measures) like protocols and better communication between commanders, there is a need to expand this further to prevent conflicts. 

Although bilateral trade exists strongly between the two, a total resolution of the border tension would boost their national economies.

Final Thoughts

The recent mutual agreements between the two are only a step towards normalcy, but there’s a long way to go. Focus on national peace and avoidance of small clashes is the need of the hour. Still, this small step gives us a glimpse of a more co-operative and peaceful future.

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