SOUTH ASIA
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Map of Events
Events primarily occurred across India, notably in New Delhi, Ladakh, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, and Bhubaneswar, reflecting political, environmental, and diplomatic developments.
Locations
Event Updates
Late PM Manmohan Singh Warns India to Reject China's 'Arrogance of Power' and Urges Regional Economic Engagement
Executive Summary
In one of his final essays published posthumously in September 2025, former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh cautioned against China's display of 'arrogance of power' and the expectation of deference from India. He reflected on the deterioration of India-China relations following the 2020 Galwan clashes, noting that previous bilateral understandings no longer hold. Singh characterized China as both a material and ideological challenge, highlighting its promotion of 'authoritarian state capitalism' as a model contrasting with liberal democracy. Despite these concerns, he advocated for enhanced economic engagement with South Asian neighbors and countries in Southeast and East Asia, emphasizing the importance of regional groupings such as SAARC and RCEP. Singh noted India's decision to stay out of RCEP in 2019 may have marginalized it from the dynamic Asian economic core. He also stressed the potential of trade and economic cooperation with Pakistan despite complex relations. Singh's essay underscores the need for India to base its policies on the premise of a challenging China while pursuing broader regional economic integration.
Situation
Manmohan Singh's essay reflects a sober assessment of India-China relations, especially after the 2020 border clashes in eastern Ladakh which marked a turning point. The essay, part of a book on Indian foreign policy, highlights the ideological shift in China towards promoting its governance model globally, which Singh views as dangerous. His call for increased economic engagement with regional partners like SAARC and RCEP members signals a strategic pivot to strengthen India's position in Asia's economic landscape. The essay implicitly critiques India's 2019 withdrawal from RCEP, suggesting it may have reduced India's influence in Asian trade dynamics. Singh also acknowledged the complexities of India-Pakistan relations but maintained that economic cooperation holds significant promise. His reflections come at a time when India navigates a challenging geopolitical environment, balancing caution towards China with the pursuit of regional cooperation.
International Impact
Singh's warnings about China's ideological and material challenge resonate globally amid concerns about China's growing assertiveness and promotion of its governance model. His advocacy for regional economic integration aligns with broader international efforts to strengthen multilateral trade frameworks in Asia. The essay may influence policymakers and analysts worldwide to reassess India's strategic posture towards China and regional economic partnerships. It also underscores the complexities of balancing competition and cooperation in Asia's geopolitical landscape.
Decision Maker Perspectives
India (Manmohan Singh): Advocates rejecting China's arrogance, acknowledges challenges in bilateral ties, and promotes expanded economic engagement with Asian neighbors.
China: Pursuing an assertive foreign policy and promoting its model of authoritarian state capitalism internationally.
Source Perspectives
The Hindu: Provides a detailed and balanced account of Manmohan Singh's essay, highlighting both caution towards China and advocacy for regional economic cooperation.
Opposition Criticizes Government's Handling of Ladakh Crisis and Detention of Activist Sonam Wangchuk
Executive Summary
Amid violent protests in Ladakh demanding Statehood and Sixth Schedule tribal status, opposition parties across India have condemned the Union government's response, particularly the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA). The protests turned violent on September 24, 2025, resulting in at least four deaths during clashes with security forces. The government accused Wangchuk of instigating the unrest and detained him, transferring him to a high-security prison in Jodhpur. Opposition leaders, including Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, called the government's handling 'pathetic' and demanded a judicial inquiry into the deaths. They criticized the abandonment of the BJP's earlier promise to grant Sixth Schedule status to Ladakh and called for Wangchuk's release, describing his detention as a blow to democracy. The protests reflect deep-seated demands for political recognition and tribal protections in the strategically important border region.
Situation
The Ladakh protests escalated following longstanding demands for Statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule, which provides tribal autonomy and protections. The government's crackdown, including the use of NSA and detention of Wangchuk, has intensified political tensions. Opposition parties have united in their criticism, highlighting the government's failure to address local aspirations and accusing it of suppressing dissent. The situation remains volatile, with curfews and heightened security measures in place. The controversy has sparked debates on democratic rights, national security, and the handling of regional grievances.
International Impact
Given Ladakh's strategic location bordering China, the unrest has implications for regional security and India's border management. The detention of a prominent activist and the violent clashes have drawn international attention to India's internal political dynamics and human rights concerns. The situation may affect India's diplomatic posture and its image as a democratic nation, influencing international perceptions and bilateral relations, especially with China and neighboring countries.
Decision Maker Perspectives
Indian Government: Accuses Wangchuk of instigating violence, justifies detention under NSA to maintain law and order.
Opposition Parties: Condemn government's handling as oppressive, demand judicial inquiry and release of Wangchuk, emphasize democratic rights and fulfillment of promises to Ladakh.
Source Perspectives
The Hindu: Reports comprehensively on the protests, government actions, and opposition responses, highlighting the complexity and sensitivity of the crisis.
Godavari River Flows Just Above First Flood Warning Mark in Bhadrachalam, Telangana
Executive Summary
The Godavari River in Bhadrachalam, Telangana, has risen just above the first flood warning mark of 43 feet due to heavy discharge from upstream reservoirs and recent heavy rains in the catchment areas along the Telangana-Chhattisgarh border. The river carried approximately 9.60 lakh cusecs of floodwaters as of the evening of September 27, 2025. The Taliperu reservoir, a tributary of the Godavari, has opened 20 crest gates to release excess water downstream. The rising water levels have raised concerns for the temple towns along the river, including Basar, Dharmapuri, and Kaleshwaram, which may face flooding risks if levels continue to rise. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely to manage water release and mitigate flood impacts.
Situation
Heavy rainfall in the catchment areas and reservoir water releases have led to increased water levels in the Godavari River. The first flood warning level has been crossed in Bhadrachalam, prompting precautionary measures. The opening of crest gates at the Taliperu reservoir aims to control reservoir levels but increases downstream flow. The situation requires coordinated management to prevent flooding in vulnerable areas, especially temple towns with significant populations and cultural importance. Local administrations are likely preparing for potential evacuations or flood relief operations if the situation worsens.
International Impact
While primarily a regional environmental event, flooding in the Godavari basin can affect water management and agricultural productivity, which may have indirect economic implications. The event underscores the challenges of monsoon management and climate change impacts in South Asia, a region prone to flooding and water-related disasters. Effective management and early warning systems are crucial to minimize human and economic losses.
Decision Maker Perspectives
Telangana State Authorities: Monitoring water levels, managing reservoir discharges, and issuing flood warnings to protect communities.
Local Communities: Facing potential flood risks, requiring preparedness and possible evacuation.
Source Perspectives
The Hindu: Provides timely reporting on rising water levels and flood warnings, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.
India Calls on BRICS to Defend Multilateral Trade System Amid US Protectionism
Executive Summary
During the United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 27, 2025, Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar hosted a meeting of BRICS foreign ministers, including Brazil, Russia, China, and South Africa. India, under its chairship of BRICS, called for defending the multilateral trading system against rising protectionism, tariff volatility, and non-tariff barriers, implicitly referencing the protectionist policies of the United States under the MAGA-influenced administration. Jaishankar emphasized BRICS' role in promoting peacebuilding, dialogue, diplomacy, and adherence to international law. The expanded BRICS group now includes ten full members and multiple partner states and applicants, reflecting growing global interest. The US administration has expressed suspicion and hostility toward BRICS, viewing it as a threat to US economic primacy and the dollar's reserve currency status. India clarified it does not support de-dollarization but stands for a fair multilateral trade system. The meeting also addressed issues like food and energy security, climate change, and sustainable development.
Situation
India is leveraging its leadership in BRICS to promote a multilateral trade framework amidst global economic tensions. The US has adopted increasingly protectionist measures and expressed hostility toward BRICS, including threats of tariffs if BRICS pursues alternatives to the US dollar. India's stance seeks to balance engagement with global powers while asserting the importance of international law and cooperation. The expansion of BRICS signals a shift in global economic alliances, challenging traditional Western dominance. The meeting also included discussions on UN Security Council reform and intra-BRICS cooperation.
International Impact
The BRICS meeting and India's leadership role highlight shifting global power dynamics and the contestation of trade and economic governance. The US's antagonism toward BRICS reflects concerns over losing economic influence. India's call for defending multilateralism resonates with many countries seeking a more balanced global order. The expansion of BRICS and its agenda on climate, food, and energy security have implications for global policy coordination and geopolitical alignments.
Decision Maker Perspectives
India: Leading BRICS to defend multilateral trade, promote peace and sustainable development, and balance relations amid US protectionism.
United States: Adopts protectionist policies, views BRICS as an economic threat, and threatens tariffs against de-dollarization efforts.
Source Perspectives
Times of India: Reports on India's assertive BRICS diplomacy and the geopolitical tensions with the US, highlighting the evolving global economic landscape.
Chief Justice of India Advocates Mediation as Integral to Justice System at National Conference
Executive Summary
Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai, speaking at the second National Mediation Conference in Bhubaneswar on September 27, 2025, emphasized that mediation should be embraced not just as a legal tool but as a community-rooted practice. He highlighted mediation's potential to transform conflict into dialogue and collaboration, fostering peace and understanding. The Justice noted mediation's formal recognition under the Mediation Act, 2023, and its role in addressing court backlogs, delays, and adversarial litigation. He called for collective commitment from judges, lawyers, mediators, community leaders, and citizens to integrate mediation into India's justice ecosystem, extending beyond courts to everyday life. Mediation offers a confidential, flexible, and faster alternative to litigation, focusing on dialogue and mutual solutions rather than winning or losing. The conference was attended by prominent judicial and political figures, underscoring the importance of mediation in legal reforms.
Situation
India faces significant challenges in its justice delivery system, including case backlogs and adversarial court processes. The Mediation Act, 2023, institutionalizes mediation as a formal dispute resolution mechanism. Chief Justice Gavai's address underscores a strategic push to promote mediation as a cultural and legal practice, requiring broad-based support. The conference aims to galvanize stakeholders to adopt mediation widely, improving access to justice and social harmony. The emphasis on mediation reflects global trends favoring alternative dispute resolution to reduce judicial burdens and foster amicable settlements.
International Impact
India's focus on mediation aligns with international best practices in justice reform and dispute resolution. It may enhance India's legal system's efficiency and reputation, encouraging foreign investment and cooperation. The approach promotes social cohesion and reduces conflict, contributing to broader governance and human rights goals. India's experience may serve as a model for other countries facing similar judicial challenges.
Decision Maker Perspectives
Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai: Advocates for mediation as a community-rooted, integral part of the justice system to promote dialogue and reduce court burdens.
Judiciary and Legal Community: Encouraged to adopt and support mediation practices to improve justice delivery.
Source Perspectives
The Hindu: Highlights the Chief Justice's call for collective efforts to mainstream mediation, reflecting a progressive legal reform agenda.
Opposition Criticizes Uttar Pradesh Government Over Bareilly Violence and Alleged Communal Polarization
Executive Summary
Following violent clashes in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, sparked by protests over the removal of 'I Love Muhammad' posters, opposition parties have accused the state government of mishandling the situation and fostering communal divisions. The violence escalated after followers of Islamic cleric Tauqeer Raza Khan protested police actions, leading to stone-pelting and lathi charges. Opposition leaders, including the U.P. Congress president Ajay Rai, condemned the police response and alleged that the government is using the situation to cover governance failures and polarize society. They pointed to provocative posters supporting political figures and actions like bulldozer demolitions as tactics to disturb communal harmony. The opposition warned that such incidents deepen social fault lines and disrupt peace, calling for restraint and dialogue to restore communal harmony in the sensitive region.
Situation
The Bareilly violence is part of a broader pattern of communal tensions in Uttar Pradesh, exacerbated by political and religious provocations. The removal of 'I Love Muhammad' posters triggered protests, met with police action that escalated into violence. Opposition parties accuse the BJP-led state government of orchestrating a divisive agenda, using law enforcement and symbolic acts to marginalize minority communities. The situation remains tense, with concerns over further polarization and breakdown of social cohesion. Calls for peaceful resolution and addressing underlying grievances are prominent among critics of the government.
International Impact
Communal violence and political polarization in India attract international attention due to concerns over human rights, religious freedom, and social stability in the world's largest democracy. Such incidents may affect India's global image and relations, especially with Muslim-majority countries. The situation underscores challenges in managing diversity and upholding secular governance in plural societies.
Decision Maker Perspectives
Uttar Pradesh Government: Justifies police actions to maintain law and order amid protests.
Opposition Parties: Accuse government of deliberate communal polarization and mishandling of the situation to cover failures.
Source Perspectives
The Hindu: Provides detailed reporting on the violence, political accusations, and communal implications, maintaining a neutral tone.