When Senior General Min Aung Hlaing arrived in India on May 30 for his first official overseas visit as Myanmar’s new “president,” the photo op was exactly what he wanted. The man who seized power in a coup, jailed elected leaders, crushed a nationwide uprising, and drove Myanmar deeper than ever into civil war was granted a platform of legitimacy by a major regional power.
This diplomatic move by India risks repeating a significant strategic error previously made by China. By engaging with the junta leader, India may be undermining its own long-term interests and the aspirations of the Myanmar people for a democratic future.
The visit occurred despite the junta’s brutal crackdown on dissent following the February 2021 coup. The military’s actions have led to widespread condemnation and sanctions from Western nations. India’s engagement stands in contrast to this international stance.
Critics argue that such high-level meetings provide the junta with much-needed diplomatic cover. This could embolden the military regime to continue its violent suppression of opposition and delay any meaningful political dialogue.
For India, the relationship with Myanmar is complex, involving border security, trade, and connectivity projects. However, prioritizing short-term strategic interests over democratic principles may prove costly in the long run, mirroring China’s earlier miscalculation.
China initially supported the junta but has faced growing instability along its border and challenges to its economic investments. India now appears to be treading a similar path, potentially alienating the broader Myanmar populace and future democratic forces.
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