Nepal-India Relations: Beyond Realist and Liberal Theoretical Prisms

Authors

  • Karun Kishor Karki The University of the Fraser Valley, Canada
  • Hari KC Global Governance, Balsillie School of International Affairs, Canada

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3126/joia.v3i1.29085

Keywords:

Nepal-India relations, foreign policy, bilateral relations, border dispute, South Asia, grand narrative, realism, liberalism, neocolonialism, hegemony

Abstract

Taking the historical narratives that tout Nepal-India relations as based on mutual respect of each other’s sovereignty as a point of departure, we provide a critical reflection upon the flaws of such a single uncritical discourse that not only risks the danger of creating stereotypes but also leaves it incomplete and misleading. Although many aspects of the Nepal-India relations indeed predate the origin of the modern nation-state, any historical discourse that downplays the realpolitik in these relations leaves the story untold about India being a hegemon interfering in Nepal’s internal affairs and obstructing Nepal’s social, economic and political progression. From a neocolonial lens, we provide snapshots of the ways and instances in which India has infringed upon Nepal’s sovereignty and independence.

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Author Biographies

Karun Kishor Karki, The University of the Fraser Valley, Canada

Assistant Professor, School of Social Work and Human Services

Hari KC, Global Governance, Balsillie School of International Affairs, Canada

Doctoral Candidate

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Published

2020-05-24

Issue

Section

Articles