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Boundaries and Territoriality in South Asia

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  • Atul Mishra

    (The author is Doctoral candidate in international politics at the Centre for International Politics, Organization and Disarmament, School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India. Email: ontic@in.com)

Abstract

This article examines the theoretical salience of territoriality, particularly in South Asia, by comparing the histories of the region's three most contentious boundaries—Durand, McMahon and Radcliffe lines. It argues that four distinct avenues are central to theoretical considerations on territoriality in South Asia: the role of liberalism in colonial construction of state; international and domestic dimensions of geopolitics; disruptions in demographic and cultural contiguities produced by the boundaries; and the nature of sovereignty resulting from the experience of colonialism. Traditional lenses for studying boundaries and territoriality offer limited analytical purchase. The article posits that critical geopolitics and history-intensive approaches allow a better grasp of material and discursive dimensions of territoriality. Such an eclectic consideration is especially suitable for studying territoriality in South Asia given the region's cross-border complexities, both real and symbolic.

Suggested Citation

  • Atul Mishra, 2008. "Boundaries and Territoriality in South Asia," International Studies, , vol. 45(2), pages 105-132, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:intstu:v:45:y:2008:i:2:p:105-132
    DOI: 10.1177/002088170804500202
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    3. James Anderson & Liam O'Dowd, 1999. "Borders, Border Regions and Territoriality: Contradictory Meanings, Changing Significance," Regional Studies, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 33(7), pages 593-604.
    4. Osiander, Andreas, 2001. "Sovereignty, International Relations, and the Westphalian Myth," International Organization, Cambridge University Press, vol. 55(2), pages 251-287, April.
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