United front tactics involve the mobilization of various groups to serve a singular strategic interest.
In the complex geopolitical landscape of the 21st century, the art of statecraft has evolved beyond traditional diplomacy and military engagements. One of the most nuanced forms of this evolution is the concept of “united front” tactics—a strategy that China has been increasingly employing in its interactions with India.
At its core, united front tactics involve the mobilization of various groups to serve a singular strategic interest. For China, this translates into a multifaceted approach towards India, aiming to influence its political decisions, economic policies, and public opinion to align with Chinese interests.
One of the most covert aspects of China’s united front tactics is cyber warfare. Reports of cyberattacks on India’s critical infrastructure, such as the power grid, have raised alarms about the silent invasion that could cripple a nation without a single soldier crossing its borders. These digital strikes are not just about immediate disruption; they are a psychological tool, instilling a sense of vulnerability within the Indian state.
China’s strategy extends to influence operations that target the very fabric of Indian society. By cultivating relationships with influential individuals, think-tanks, and cultural organizations, China seeks to create a narrative conducive to its worldview. The Confucius Institutes, for example, have been at the centre of controversy, with allegations of them being a front for espionage and propaganda.
The battleground has shifted from physical territories to the cognitive realm. Disinformation campaigns and the manipulation of media narratives are part of China’s arsenal to destabilize and confuse. The aim is to create a parallel reality where facts are malleable, and truth is what the Party deems it to be.
China’s united front work also includes soft power initiatives. Cultural exchange programs and outreach to the Indian diaspora are designed to foster a positive image of China, countering the negative press it often receives. These efforts are subtle yet powerful, as they shape perceptions over the long term.
The Doklam standoff and the clashes in the Galwan Valley are stark reminders of the military dimension of China’s united front tactics. These confrontations serve a dual purpose: demonstrating China’s military might and testing India’s resolve. They are a physical manifestation of the psychological and political pressure exerted through other united front activities.
India stands at a crossroads, facing a neighbour that wields united front tactics with strategic finesse. The challenge for India is to recognize these manoeuvres and counter them with a united front of its own—a coalition of democratic nations, robust cybersecurity measures, and a resilient civil society that can withstand the allure and assault of China’s strategic chessboard.
As we navigate this era of new-age warfare, it is imperative for India and like-minded nations to develop a comprehensive understanding of united front tactics and devise counter-strategies that uphold their sovereignty and democratic values.
Khedroob Thondup is the son of Gyalo Thondup, elder brother of the Dalai Lama. Educated at St Stephens College, Delhi University and the University of San Francisco, Khedroob Thondup was Personal Assistant to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and accompanied him on his first trip in 1979 to the U.S. He was sent by the Dalai Lama to Beijing from 1980 till 1993 in dialogue talks. He interacted with Xi Jinping’s father Xi Zhongxun and Hu Jintao. He is President of the Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre, Darjeeling since 1987.
The views expressed in this article are based on the author’s analysis of available information and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any government or organization.