Understanding the Political Landscape of the Chagos Archipelago

Historical Background and Political Status

The Chagos Archipelago became part of the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) in 1965, prior to Mauritius gaining independence in 1968. This separation was orchestrated by the UK to facilitate a clandestine agreement with the United States, which allowed for the construction of a military base on Diego Garcia.

Displacement of the Chagossians

Between 1967 and 1973, the UK and the US forcibly displaced the native Chagossians, who are descendants of African slaves and Indian plantation workers. They were relocated to Mauritius, Seychelles, and the UK, with no legal right to return to their homeland.

Establishment of BIOT

The establishment of BIOT was primarily driven by the UK’s negotiation with the US to lease Diego Garcia as a military base. The UK strategically detached the Chagos Islands from Mauritius before granting it independence, ensuring continued control over the archipelago.

ICJ ruling on Chagos

In 2019, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled that the UK's detachment of the Chagos Archipelago was unlawful, declaring Mauritius's decolonization process incomplete. Following this, the UN General Assembly passed a resolution urging the UK to return the islands to Mauritius.

UK's Response to the ICJ Ruling

The UK initially dismissed the ICJ ruling, asserting that Mauritius had no legitimate claim to the Chagos Islands. However, in a significant diplomatic shift in 2024, the UK agreed to transfer sovereignty to Mauritius, effectively ending decades of dispute.

US Involvement and Security Implications

US military base in Diego Garcia

The US's involvement in the Chagos Islands dispute stems from its operation of a major military base on Diego Garcia, which is crucial for strategic operations across the Middle East, Indo-Pacific, and Africa. The US has significant interests in the region, making it a key player in any changes to sovereignty affecting Diego Garcia.

UK's Dependence on US Approval

The UK has effectively allowed the US to hold veto power over the transfer of Diego Garcia. Key reasons for this include:

• The base’s strategic importance for US military operations in the Indian Ocean.
• Concerns that Mauritius may favor Chinese influence if it gains control.
• Deep defense and intelligence ties between the UK and the US necessitating Washington’s approval.

New Agreement Regarding Diego Garcia

Recently, the UK has agreed to lease Diego Garcia back from Mauritius for a term of 99 years, with an option for a 40-year extension. This agreement is pending US approval, with indications that President Donald Trump is “inclined” to support it.

India’s Interests in the Chagos Islands

India's Concerns

India supports Mauritius's claim to the Chagos Islands due to historical ties while valuing the US military presence on Diego Garcia, which enhances regional security. This dual interest reflects India’s strategic considerations in the Indian Ocean.

Impact on India's Security

Diego Garcia is pivotal in maintaining stability in the Indian Ocean, countering piracy, terrorism, and geopolitical threats. The US presence aligns with India’s interests in securing vital sea routes.

Potential Changes in Strategic Ties

If Mauritius gains control over the Chagos Islands, India may find new opportunities for defense cooperation in the region. Conversely, if China strengthens its relations with Mauritius, it could challenge India's maritime influence.

India's Diplomatic Stance

India supports Mauritius's sovereignty claim but acknowledges the security roles played by the US and UK in Diego Garcia. It remains diplomatically engaged with all parties involved, balancing its interests in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What led to the separation of Chagos Archipelago from Mauritius?
Answer: The UK separated the Chagos Archipelago from Mauritius in 1965 to establish the British Indian Ocean Territory, facilitating a military agreement with the US for a base on Diego Garcia.

Q2. What was the outcome of the ICJ ruling regarding Chagos?
Answer: The ICJ ruled in 2019 that the UK's detachment of the Chagos Archipelago was unlawful, asserting that Mauritius's decolonization was incomplete and urging the return of the islands.

Q3. Why is Diego Garcia strategically important?
Answer: Diego Garcia serves as a critical military base for the US, supporting operations in the Middle East and Indo-Pacific, thereby influencing regional security dynamics.

Q4. How does the Chagos Islands dispute affect India?
Answer: India supports Mauritius's claim and values the US presence at Diego Garcia for regional security, balancing interests in potential defense cooperation and geopolitical stability.

Q5. What are the implications of Mauritius gaining sovereignty over Chagos?
Answer: If Mauritius gains control, it could enhance defense cooperation with India, but there are concerns about increased Chinese influence in the region, which may challenge India’s strategic interests.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What year did the UK establish the British Indian Ocean Territory?
A) 1965
B) 1973
C) 1968
D) 1980
Correct Answer: A

Question 2: Which country operates a military base on Diego Garcia?
A) India
B) UK
C) USA
D) France
Correct Answer: C