China and India: No longer "bhai-bhai," but "bye-bye"

China persists in its belligerent stance, exemplified once more by its recent release of a list of names for places in Arunachal Pradesh. This maneuver, however, is mere folly. New Delhi has unequivocally reaffirmed the obvious: the renaming exercise in no manner alters the fact that Arunachal Pradesh has been, is, and will always be an integral part of India. Beijing's assertion of control over the region, which it labels as 'south Tibet,' exists only within the realm of an expansionist fantasy. Moreover, it underscores China's lack of intent to mend ties with India.

While China demands respect for its territorial integrity from the international community, it fails to reciprocate this principle in its dealings with other nations. This double standard is evident in the numerous border and maritime disputes it has with neighboring countries. By asserting a claim over Arunachal Pradesh, China reveals its perception of India as a nation amenable to coercion. Therefore, it may be time for India to reassess its commitment to the 'One China' policy, especially as our practical collaboration with the Republic of China, or Taiwan—tragically affected by a massive earthquake yesterday—is expanding.

 India's stance against China has been evolving. Since 2010, India has refrained from mentioning the 'One China' policy in joint statements and official documents. Beijing's outright rejection of a reciprocal 'One India' policy in 2014 further diminishes the need for New Delhi to navigate this issue delicately. China remains India's strategic rival and a security concern, evident through PLA incursions and other provocations.