Question

In the context of the Sino-Indian War of 1962, answer the following question.

Discuss any four causes of the War.

Answer 1

The Sino-Indian War of 1962 was a short but big border war between India and China. China won quickly. Here are four main causes:

1. Border dispute: India and China differed on the border. In the west (Aksai Chin, Ladakh), China constructed a road through territory that India claimed. India claimed that the 1914 Simla Agreement’s McMahon Line, which is now Arunachal Pradesh, was the border in the east. China was not entirely appreciative.
2. Tibet issue and the Dalai Lama: China took control of Tibet in 1950. An uprising in Tibet failed in 1959. In India, the Dalai Lama escaped. He was taken in by India. China perceived this as India interfering in its domestic affairs and encouraging anti-Chinese actions.
3. India’s Forward Policy: India's “Forward Policy” began in 1961 and involves placing minor posts in disputed areas in order to make claims. India believed that this would deter China. However, it upset China, resulting in conflicts. China considered it offensive.
4. Failed talks and mistrust: Nehru and Zhou Enlai had numerous meetings but were unable to come to an agreement. “Package deal” (keep what each has) was offered by China. India objected. Each party was suspicious of the other. During the October 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, China launched an attack.