Three years after the military coup in February 2021, the situation in Myanmar continues to worsen, with the junta perpetrating widespread violence and displacement of its own people. India, despite the human rights abuses, has maintained formal relations with the regime, drawing criticism from within and outside the country. While Indian policy scholars and practitioners argue for pragmatic engagement to protect India’s ‘interests’ in Myanmar, this article proposes a different approach.
In foreign policy, the separation of ‘values’ and ‘interests’ is often blurred. How a country defines these terms shapes its foreign policy actions. India has historically defined its ‘interests’ in Myanmar narrowly in strategic terms. However, a broader perspective that incorporates values is essential to effectively defend those interests. India can implement a more progressive, values-driven Myanmar policy that aligns with its national interests by prioritizing democracy and human security.
This policy requires immediate action on four key fronts:
Firstly, India should leverage its position as the largest federal democracy in the region to influence Myanmar’s political landscape. Myanmar’s pro-democracy elites and civil society have long viewed India as a model for a federal democratic union. Currently, the democratic resistance in Myanmar, led by the National Unity Government (NUG), seeks to replace the military-drafted 2008 constitution with a federal constitution. India can differentiate itself from China, its primary regional competitor, by supporting the opposition through capacity-building and knowledge exchange programs. While both Beijing and New Delhi can sell military hardware, only India can offer the spirit of federal cooperation.
Secondly, India must halt all weapons sales to the Myanmar military. Evidence suggests that Indian state-owned manufacturers have sold a range of military equipment to the junta since the coup. This undermines India’s commitment to human rights and fuels the junta’s violence against civilians.
Thirdly, India needs to open cross-border humanitarian corridors to provide immediate relief to civilians affected by the conflict in Sagaing Region, Chin State, and northern Rakhine State. These regions have seen significant internal displacement due to ongoing violence. India should revoke its border fencing plans, reinstate the Free Movement Regime, and collaborate with existing humanitarian aid networks to provide essential supplies like medicines, food, and shelter. Learning from Thailand’s recent cross-border aid delivery initiative can be beneficial.
Finally, the Indian government should stop the detention and deportation of asylum seekers from Myanmar. The BJP-led governments in Manipur and Assam have been detaining and deporting refugees who are fleeing violence and persecution. This is a violation of international law and the Indian Constitution, which upholds the right to seek asylum. India has a moral obligation to provide protection to those seeking refuge from the junta’s brutality.
India’s reputation as the ‘Vishwabandhu’ (friend of the world) is at stake. By embracing a more humane and principled approach towards Myanmar, India can demonstrate its commitment to democratic values and human rights while securing its long-term interests in the region.
