Documents shared by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reveal insights into the discussions between the Centre and then Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, M. Karunanidhi, regarding the Katchatheevu agreement with Sri Lanka in 1974.
Establishing Consultation:
The MEA documents outline a meeting held on June 19, 1974, between Chief Minister Karunanidhi and Foreign Secretary Kewal Singh in Madras. The purpose was to keep Tamil Nadu informed of developments and seek its input.
Weak Legal Case and Security Concerns:
Singh highlighted the weak legal standing of India’s claim over Katchatheevu compared to Sri Lanka’s. He also emphasized security concerns, including undisclosed oil structures in the area, urging a swift settlement.
Options Presented to Karunanidhi:
Karunanidhi inquired about delaying the settlement, but Singh emphasized domestic and external pressures. These included Sri Lanka’s drilling activities and a pro-China lobby, suggesting potential repercussions for India.
Challenges with Arbitration:
Singh discussed the limitations of arbitration, citing past instances and potential international biases against India. He stressed the importance of political negotiations over third-party intervention.
Karunanidhi’s Response:
Karunanidhi expressed willingness to accept the proposed solution but faced political challenges in publicly supporting it. He assured cooperation in managing public reaction while withholding sensitive information.
Conclusion:
The documents shed light on the consultations preceding the Katchatheevu agreement, highlighting legal, security, and political considerations influencing the decision-making process.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ):
- What was the purpose of the meeting between Chief Minister Karunanidhi and Foreign Secretary Kewal Singh?
a) To finalize the Katchatheevu agreement
b) To discuss Tamil Nadu’s views on the Katchatheevu issue
c) To negotiate with Sri Lanka regarding Katchatheevu
d) To seek legal advice on India’s claim over Katchatheevu
Answer: b) To discuss Tamil Nadu’s views on the Katchatheevu issue - What were the main concerns raised by Foreign Secretary Kewal Singh during the meeting?
a) Economic implications of the agreement
b) Weak legal case and security interests
c) Environmental impact of the agreement
d) Cultural implications of ceding Katchatheevu
Answer: b) Weak legal case and security interests - What were the domestic and external pressures mentioned by Singh to advocate for a swift settlement?
a) Sri Lanka’s cultural influence and economic interests
b) Tamil Nadu’s political opposition and China’s diplomatic pressure
c) India’s economic development and Sri Lanka’s territorial ambitions
d) Oil discoveries and a pro-China lobby in Sri Lanka
Answer: d) Oil discoveries and a pro-China lobby in Sri Lanka - Why did Singh emphasize political negotiations over third-party arbitration?
a) Due to India’s historical disputes with Sri Lanka
b) To prevent international intervention in bilateral issues
c) To uphold India’s sovereignty over Katchatheevu
d) Because of the ineffectiveness of arbitration in previous cases
Answer: b) To prevent international intervention in bilateral issues