Indian Economic Blockade On Nepal: A Study Of Coercive Diplomatic Tactic

Abstract

Centuries old friendly relations with porous border makes the Indo Nepal relations one of a kind and most celebrated bilateral relations in the international community. Nonetheless, the palsy-walsy relation turns fickle at times as witnessed during the blockade imposed by India on Nepal during 1970, 1989 and 2015 A.D. The 2015 blockade by India, tout de suite after the adaptation of new constitution by Nepal, was neither declared nor admitted by the India even though Nepal took the matter to various international forums. Despite negating the accusatory remarks by Nepal and other concerned authorities, the lack of flow of goods especially at the southern border demonstrated otherwise. India taciturnly supported the Madhesi agitator halting the goods loaded trucks on the borders. The impact was huge, especially because Nepal was trying to resuscitate from the massive earthquake. It created political, economic, social and humanitarian crisis in Nepal. Both the life of people and economy suffered. Moreover, it once again commoved the social division based on region, race and origin. Above all, substantial outcome came in the form of disenchantment among Nepali people about the Indo Nepal relation, Indian Big Brotherly outlook towards Nepal and the fickle status of Nepal’s diplomacy. The blockade have been characterised by the power imbalance between Nepal and India where India is way ahead in the power game because of its accelerative global reach. And in Nepal’s case dependence upon India fueled by low level of development, foreign aid has coalesced India’s position in Nepali affairs, leading to repeated intrusion on Nepali domestic issues.