SOURCE: AFI
Over the last seven years, Bhutan has witnessed a significant erosion of its territorial sovereignty, losing approximately 2% of its land to Chinese encroachments, as revealed by the latest satellite imagery analysis. This development is part of a broader strategy by China, which has established at least 22 villages and settlements within Bhutanese territory over the past eight years. Eight of these villages have been constructed since 2020, particularly in areas near the Doklam plateau, a region of strategic importance due to its proximity to the trijunction of India, Bhutan, and China.
Satellite imagery and reports from various international news outlets and think tanks have documented China’s methodical approach to altering the territorial status quo in Bhutan. This involves not just the physical construction of settlements but also the relocation of thousands of people into these areas, effectively creating facts on the ground. The villages near Doklam are particularly alarming, as this plateau has been the site of previous stand-offs between Indian and Chinese forces in 2017, highlighting its strategic military value.
The question now arises whether Bhutan can maintain its sovereignty in the face of these aggressive territorial claims by China. Bhutan, guided by its policy of “Gross National Happiness” and neutrality, has traditionally relied on diplomatic means to resolve border disputes, maintaining a close security partnership with India. However, the silent acquiescence or inability to counter these encroachments raises concerns about the future of Bhutan’s royal monarchy and its territorial integrity.
Historically, Mao Zedong’s vision included Bhutan as part of what he referred to as the “Five Fingers of Tibet,” indicating a long-standing ambition to incorporate Bhutan into Chinese territory. This historical claim appears to be manifesting through these recent actions, where China is not just asserting control but also altering the demographic and physical landscape of Bhutan.
The Bhutanese monarchy, while committed to preserving the nation’s independence and cultural identity, faces a complex geopolitical reality. The Royal Government of Bhutan has been in talks with China for decades, with the aim of settling border disputes. However, the pace and nature of these discussions have not matched China’s on-ground assertiveness. The Bhutanese leadership has maintained a disciplined silence on the issue, possibly to avoid antagonizing either of its giant neighbors, China and India.
For India, Bhutan’s territorial integrity is not just a matter of regional stability but also of national security, given the strategic implications of Chinese control over areas like Doklam, which could threaten the Siliguri Corridor—India’s narrow land link to its northeastern states. The increasing Chinese presence in Bhutan could also serve as leverage in negotiations over other disputed territories with India.
Bhutan’s approach to this crisis involves a delicate balance between diplomacy, international support, and possibly reevaluating its security arrangements. Strengthening ties with India, which has a vested interest in Bhutan’s sovereignty, could be pivotal. However, Bhutan must also engage more assertively in international forums to highlight and counter these encroachments.
The international community, particularly nations valuing sovereignty and the rules-based international order, should take note. Bhutan’s situation could set a precedent for how small nations are treated in international law and diplomacy when faced with the territorial ambitions of larger powers.