The relationship between India and Nepal is no longer unique.
Previously, Nepal directly incorporated disputed areas with India through constitutional amendments, causing shock across various sectors in India.
At that time, various sections of Indian society felt regretful about Nepal's actions, lamenting the end of this steadfast friendship.
However, even faced with such "immense sorrow," India didn't miss the opportunity to criticize China—Indian media claimed that Nepal's rift with India was due to China's "interference" and "sowing discord."
Seeing that the Indian people were beginning to worry about the rupture of this national sentiment, the Indian Defense Minister issued a statement on the 15th, reassuring that "the 'special relationship' between India and Nepal cannot be broken by any force in the world."
At the same time, the former Indian ambassador to Nepal unexpectedly stated: India and Nepal have arrived at this extremely dangerous situation today, and both sides bear certain responsibilities.
Furthermore, Indian strategic experts believe that although Nepal has received support from China and its comprehensive national strength and confidence have grown, this is not enough for it to take this "unprecedented step."
Experts suggest that the true reasons behind the collapse of emotions between the two countries may also include India's arrogance and complacency in its dealings with Nepal.
So, what are the facts?
1. Historical Impact of British Colonialism
It is necessary to know that Nepal is surrounded by India, making its surprising move not easy.
Nepal's relationship with India has always been complex and diverse, involving various areas that are difficult to understand.
Previously, due to misunderstandings, including Nepal, the entire Indian subcontinent was long referred to as "Ancient India."
Until 1841, British colonizers invaded Nepal, delineating large territories as British colonies and strictly controlling their diplomatic areas.
At that time, British colonies were called "British India," covering what is now India, Pakistan, Burma, and Bangladesh.
This tragic fate continued into the 20th century until Nepal rose in resistance, pursuing national independence and autonomy.
In 1923, Britain and Nepal signed a peace treaty, recognizing Nepal's independent autonomy but retaining some privileges.
Despite nominal independence, Nepal remained under British constraints and was therefore very dissatisfied.
With the end of World War II, British influence in Nepal gradually weakened.
Seeing the precarious situation of the motherland, the British government had to quickly restore national strength to avoid invasion by hostile countries.
Faced with internal and external pressures, Britain eventually withdrew from the Indian subcontinent, and India and Pakistan also declared independence.
Perhaps influenced by years of British colonial rule, India considered itself "far ahead" of neighboring countries under British leadership and, after independence, aspired to become the "hegemon of Southeast Asia."
It hoped to inherit the "legacy" of British India and become the dominant force in the region, wielding life and death power. However, when ambition didn’t match strength, accidents occurred frequently.
2. Disappearance of Special Relationship
To realize this ambitious goal, India decided to emulate Britain's tough tactics—by controlling neighboring countries' internal affairs, shaking their foundations, and forcing them to depend on it.
Due to Nepal's unique geographical position, it became India's "primary target." Being surrounded by India on three sides, all aspects of Nepal's development had to be restricted by India.
This led India to mistakenly believe that it had successfully "controlled" Nepal, thus enhancing its control over various aspects of Nepal.
Consequently, friction between India and Nepal continued to intensify.
With India's expanding power and brute force, Nepal began to fear sudden betrayal by India. Therefore, after careful consideration, Nepal decided to approach China.
If not for survival in India's squeeze, the title of "Nepal's top trading partner" would have long been transferred to China.
In long-standing friendly trade exchanges, Nepal began to re-examine China—previously, due to India's footsteps following Western countries, Nepal was somewhat influenced and held some hostility towards China.
However, through continuous contact, Nepal began to realize that China is a truly reliable partner. China has strong comprehensive strength, has never invaded other countries, and has always pursued a friendly and peaceful foreign policy, treating all countries in the world equally.
China's performance has made Nepal feel very reassured, thus accelerating its steps toward China.
Seeing Nepal's rapid economic development and increasing national strength with China's help, gradually showing signs of breaking away from India's control, India began to feel panicked.
However, even if India belatedly apologizes, it can only watch Nepal, which it once didn't recognize, gradually "straighten its backbone" with China's support.
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