India, boundary stand-off with China at the Doka La tri-junction with Bhutan
The Doko-La plateau, which overlooks the Chumba valley in Tibet is contested by China and Bhutan and is of great srtetegic importance to China because of its claim over Tibet. Building a motorable road by PLA connecting China with the tri-junction is the reason of present stand off with China as India is cautious to the project which can give Chinese access to Chicken's Neck (Siliguri Corridor).
How to resolve:-
- Unlike Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim is not a disputed territory as both countries agree on the delineation of boundary which is based on a 1890's treaty between Quing Empire and Britain.
- The present stand off is not because of direct confrontation but over China and Bhutan border.
- India should convey its clear intentions of being involved just because of its commitment under friendship treaty and the provisions to resolve can be different from other existing bilateral issues between both.
- Both countries should fix a dead line to withdraw troops well as withdraw construction without waiting for the other to initiate else would be a deadlock.
What prevents the resolution:-
- Though the contested land is between China and Bhutan, India being committed to protect Bhutan's interest under its friendship treaty is objecting the construction and is irking China.
- To retaliate Indian soldiers have transgressed into Chinese border near the tri junction.
- Last week Chinese army refused pilgrims on their way to Kailash Mansarovaryatra into Tibet through Nathu La pass.
- Existing issues like China objection to India's NSG bid, reluctance to corner Pakistan on cross border terrorism and India's opposition to OBOR passing though POK and siding US in maritime issues. The border issues are sensitive, the jostling between soldiers of the two countries as were circulated on the internet should be discouraged and a well planned talks must be initiated without wasting any time.
