Indian imperialism
EHTISHAM AAMIRTuesday,July 03,2007
In theory, interstate relations are governed by principle of “Sovereign Equality” and “non interference”. But ours is an imperfect world. It is not entirely governed by theoretical principles. “Might is right” is usually the norm. But modern states and specially those who purport to be democratic display some degree of adherence and respect to principles. But in our neighbours we have a state which has violated most principles and norms of modern statecraft and democracy. It concurrently claims to be “the largest democracy of world”. India is one country which has track record of violating most accepted norms like human rights, non interference in internal matters of other states and has been expanding beyond national borders etc. Subsequent to acquiring overt nuclear capability in 1998, the jingoistic overtures and interference in internal matters of other by India has increased dramatically.
All of India’s neighbours have substantial complaints about its high-handed attitude in bilateral matters. But of late, this interference has reached alarming proportions. In 2006, Indian External Affairs ministry issued a statement about security situation in Balochistan. It was clear manifestation of interference in internal affairs of Pakistan.
Lately MK Narayanan, India’s National Security Advisor, issued a statement which reflects India’s designs and future intent about region. He almost thundered out on Sri Lanka “We are the big Power in this region. Let us make it very clear. We strongly believe that whatever requirements the Sri Lankan government has, they should come to us. And we will give to them what we think is necessary. We do not favour their going to china or Pakistan or any other country”. What else would constitute a blatant violation of “Sovereign Equality” and “Non interference” in domestic affair?
India coerced Srilankan government in accepting Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) during late eighties. Subsequent humiliating withdrawal of this IPKF is history. During deployment of IPKF in Srilanka, it used even gunship helicopters to crush Tamils resistance. And the same country is denying a sovereign country the purchase of rudimentary arms and hardware from the desired source. This tiny island nation has never been a strategic or tactical threat to India. But Indian hegemonic designs know no limits. It wants a total subjugation and nothing short.
India belies the oft quoted comment that” democracies don’t go to wars”. it has had wars with almost all of her note worthy neigbours. With Pakistan it has had wars in 1948, 1965,1971 and many stand offs like 1986/87 and recent one of 2001/2002. It has gone to war with China in 1962 over NEFA valley. Has interfered militarily in Maldives in 1988. List is endless. The common point is that India has an insatiable desire of expansion. It can allow her neighbours to lead independent domestic or foreign policy. She wants to realize her dream of “Akhand Bharat”
Purchase of military hardware from any source is sovereign right of Srilankan. Especially if such equipment of Indian origin has failed to deliver. It is appropriate to mention that this statement in question is less of brow beating to Srilanka then a veiled threat to Pak and China. They have been cautioned to refrain from activities considered” unacceptable” by India in South Asia. It is revival of “Indra doctrine” and sign of Hindu Imperialism. This phenomenon, though present since 1947, has exploded post-nuclearisation and as a corollary to revival of "Hinduvita” by Hindu extremist parties. Pakistan and China must stand up and take serious note of renewed imperialist policy of India. But India is not expected to heed to niceties of diplomacy and peaceful coexistence. She has an unenviable record of disputes with all her neighbours on one account or other. Pakistan and China must condemn the statement in clear terms and must ask India to refrain from such overture against their sovereignty.
http://www.nation.com.pk/daily/july-2007/3/columns5.php