India's Foreign Policy: A coalition politics' puppet?

The Indian Constitution provides a clear demarcation of powers between the Centre and the states, and the subject of foreign policy vests exclusively with the Centre. However, the Centre has come under increasing pressure from states like Tamil Nadu in determining its policy towards Sri Lanka and West Bengal in case of Bangladesh.

If compulsions of coalition politics are allowed to influence foreign policy, the Centre will soon have more than it can handle in the days to come. Here’s a look at some long-standing and recent disputes:

1. Jammu and Kashmir-Pakistan

Lingering border dispute. Recent beheading of Indian soldier further escalated tension between the two

2. Sir Creek

Modi made Sir Creek an emotive issue during state polls

3. Nitaqat

Saudi Arabia’s Nitaqat law may render many Keralites jobless. State government pressing Centre to provide free air tickets to returnees. State BJP accusing Centre of inaction

4. India-China

Have long-standing territorial disputes ( McMahon line and J&K areas), and each is wary of the other’s influence in the broader Asian region

5. West Bengal-Teesta

Mamata raises objections to water-sharing treaty with Dhaka. Talks stuck since 2011, leading to tensions. AGP pressuring Centre for more talks on land-swap deal with Bangladesh

6. Tamil Nadu-Sri Lanka

DMK wanted Centre to demand a UNHRC resolution for an independent probe into the alleged ethnic cleansing in Lanka. Jayalalithaa ensured that Lankan players will not play in Chennai

7. Minicoy-Maldives

On 26 July, 1982, Abdulla Hameed, half-brother of the then Maldivian president, declared Minicoy to be a part of Maldives. This caused a minor diplomatic crisis. But Prez Gayoom defused the situation.