Answer:

Introduction:

The South China Sea, a strategic and resource-rich maritime region, has become a focal point of international dispute, with overlapping territorial claims by several nations. The situation is further complicated by the strategic interests of external powers like the United States and India. India’s involvement, while historically minimal, has recently intensified, reflecting its broader strategic objectives and concerns over China’s growing influence.

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India’s Involvement in the South China Sea

• India’s engagement in the South China Sea has been increasing under the current administration. This includes defense cooperation with claimant states, participation in naval exercises, and even arms sales to countries like the Philippines and Vietnam. 
• For instance, in May 2019, the Indian Navy conducted joint exercises with the U.S., Japanese, and Philippine navies in the South China Sea. Further, India has been involved in oil and gas exploration with Vietnam in this region since the early 2000s, despite China’s objections​​.
• Strategically, India views the South China Sea as critical for ensuring freedom of navigation, given that a significant portion of its trade passes through the Malacca Strait. 
• Additionally, India perceives the region as a counterbalance to China’s presence in the Indian Ocean and as a platform to advance its “Act East Policy”​​.

Bilateral Issues Between India and China

The bilateral relationship between India and China is marked by several contentious issues, including their border dispute, the Tibet issue, and differing perceptions of each other’s role in regional and global politics.

• Border Dispute: 
  • The long-standing border dispute between India and China has seen increased tensions, especially after the Galwan Valley clash in 2020.
  • China’s reluctance to settle the border issue and its frequent violations of bilateral border agreements have exacerbated the situation. 
  • The standoff and subsequent military build-up along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) highlight the deep-seated mistrust between the two countries​​.
• Tibet Issue: 
  • The Tibet factor plays a significant role in India-China relations. China’s control over Tibet and its policies towards the Dalai Lama have been sources of friction. 
  • India’s support for the Tibetan government-in-exile and the hosting of the Dalai Lama have been points of contention, contributing to the strained relationship​​.
• Perceptions and Strategic Calculations: 
  • China’s perception of India as an emerging regional competitor, coupled with its historical view of India, contributes to a complex bilateral dynamic. 
  • India’s growing ties with the United States, especially in the context of the Quad alliance, are viewed by China as a security challenge. 
  • This perception influences China’s approach to India, including its policies in the South China Sea and along the shared border​​.

Conclusion:

The South China Sea disputes and the India-China bilateral issues are intertwined with broader geopolitical dynamics. India’s increasing involvement in the South China Sea is driven by strategic interests, concerns over freedom of navigation, and the need to balance China’s growing regional influence. Simultaneously, the complex and often tense bilateral relationship between India and China, marked by border disputes, differing worldviews, and strategic competition, adds layers of complexity to the regional security landscape. Therefore, it is imperative for regional stakeholders to pursue diplomatic engagement and adhere to international law to ensure stability and prevent escalation of conflicts in this critical maritime domain.

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