China's encroachment into Bhutan's ancestral land raises concerns

Recent satellite imagery revealed China's ongoing illegal encroachment into northeast Bhutan, where rapid construction of townships along a river valley in Beyul Khenpajong, an area of profound cultural significance, is underway.

Bhutan, a nation with a population significantly smaller than India's National Capital Region, finds itself unable to halt China's encroachment into its northern, western, and southwestern periphery, indicating a trend of unlawful land acquisition along the Himalayan border.

Professor Robert Barnett from the School of Oriental and African Studies highlighted the contentious nature of China's recent claim over Beyul Khenpajong, exploiting an area of cultural significance to its less influential neighbour, Bhutan, reported NDTV.

This encroachment, occurring despite ongoing border discussions, indicates China's unyielding stance and potential reluctance to retreat from these regions.

Responding cautiously to queries on China's construction in Beyul Khenpajong, Bhutan's Ambassador to India, Major General Vetsop Namgyel (retired), refrained from commenting on ongoing border negotiations. He emphasised Bhutan's commitment to upholding its territorial interests during these discussions.

Satellite experts, analysing the recent imagery, highlight the emergence of large settlements capable of accommodating hundreds of structures. Over 200 single and multi-storey buildings have been identified, with expectations of the final count being significantly higher as construction in three enclaves remains ongoing.

Comparative imagery from November 2020 demonstrates the transformation of Beyul Khenpajong, previously devoid of large-scale construction, into a landscape sculpted by extensive road networks and habitation zones.

The historical significance of Beyul Khenpajong, holding ancestral connections to Bhutan's royal family, holds deep-rooted importance. However, Bhutan's government appears powerless to halt Chinese settlements in this region.

China's encroachment into Bhutan also raises concerns for India's security, given past tensions in the Doklam plateau where Indian and Chinese soldiers confronted each other in 2017. China's land acquisition in Bhutan aims to extend its presence southward, potentially threatening India's vital Siliguri corridor.

Amidst increasing pressure, Bhutan seeks to resolve border disputes. Diplomatic efforts include Bhutan's Foreign Minister's visit to Beijing and optimistic remarks from Prime Minister Lotay Tshering regarding border demarcation. However, these talks' progress remains undisclosed, although India is reportedly kept informed.

There's apprehension about Bhutan's evolving ties with China, with observers speculating a shift in Bhutan's strategic alliances. However, as of now, there are no indications of any imminent security agreements between Bhutan and India.