International Journal of Social Science Research (IJSSR)

Territorial Contestation and Border Politics in Arunachal Pradesh: A Strategic Perspective

This paper analyse territorial contestation and border politics in Arunachal Pradesh within the broader context of India-China relations. It examines the historical background of the McMahon Line, the strategic and symbolic significance of Tawang, China's claims over Arunachal Pradesh, India's constitutional and administrative control, recent border infrastructure projects, and the role of frontier communities in strengthening sovereignty. The study follows a qualitative, descriptive and analytical approach based on secondary sources, including scholarly literature, official statements, government documents and policy reports. Through historical analysis and thematic content analysis, the dispute is treated as a multi-layered borderland issue rather than a simple cartographic disagreement. The paper argues that India's position in Arunachal Pradesh is strengthened by administrative continuity, democratic participation, infrastructure development, military preparedness and integration with local communities, whereas China's claim-making relies largely on historical reinterpretation, symbolic geography and diplomatic signalling. The study suggests that long-term stability in Arunachal Pradesh requires a balanced approach that combines defence readiness, consistent diplomacy, environmental care, sustainable development and inclusive frontier governance.