The Simla Accord of 1914 was a significant treaty that attempted to settle the borders between British India, Tibet, and China. A key aspect of this accord was the delimitation of the border between India and Tibet, which has a direct bearing on the present-day state of Arunachal Pradesh. Here's an in-depth look at the topic:
Background:
At the turn of the 20th century, the Himalayan borderlands were a zone of ambiguity and contention. The British, eager to secure their Indian territory and counter Russian influence in the region, sought to define clear boundaries with Tibet. This led to the Simla Conference in 1913-14, attended by representatives of Britain, Tibet, and China.
The McMahon Line:
During the conference, British representative Sir Henry McMahon negotiated a separate agreement with the Tibetan representative, Lonchen Shatra. This resulted in the demarcation of a boundary line, later known as the McMahon Line, which ran along the crest of the Himalayas. This line effectively placed the Tawang and other areas of present-day Arunachal Pradesh within British India.
Arunachal Pradesh's Role:
Though not a direct participant in the negotiations, the territory that constitutes Arunachal Pradesh today played a central role in the Simla Accord. The McMahon Line, by incorporating this region into British India, laid the foundation for the future state of Arunachal Pradesh.
China's Position:
While the Simla Accord was initialed by all three parties, China later refused to ratify it, objecting to the McMahon Line and claiming sovereignty over Tibet. This has led to a long-standing border dispute between India and China, with Arunachal Pradesh at its core.
Significance of the Simla Accord:
Delimitation of Borders: The accord aimed to establish clear boundaries between British India, Tibet, and China, although the McMahon Line remains a point of contention.
Assertion of British Influence: The Simla Accord reflected Britain's desire to consolidate its control over the Himalayan region and counter Russian influence.
Foundation for Arunachal Pradesh: The inclusion of the territory that comprises Arunachal Pradesh within British India through the McMahon Line laid the groundwork for the state's formation in 1987.
Ongoing Border Dispute: China's non-recognition of the McMahon Line has resulted in an ongoing border dispute between India and China, with Arunachal Pradesh remaining a strategically sensitive area