In a shocking revelation, Dr Lobsang Sangay, the outgoing President (Sikyong) of the Tibetan Government in Exile, alleged that the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi has been actively working to influence Indian politicians and even stage a change in government.
"Elite co-option has been an ancient Chinese strategy," he said in an exclusive NDTV interview. "They buy off leaders, intellectuals, businesspeople, journalists, and nowadays even YouTubers. That's how they infiltrated Tibet, Xinjiang, and Mongolia - and they are trying the same in India."
Dr Sangay warned that India cannot escape Beijing's political machinations. "Just see the Chinese Embassy's National Day celebrations in Delhi. See who is present. You will see photographs of politicians, business personalities, and others. Not all of them are on sale, but the Chinese keep trying," he said.
He made disturbing parallels with India's neighbors, pointing to China's attempts at backing acquiescent regimes. "Everyone must be cautious - ruling party, opposition, business leaders, journalists. China doesn't care who they buy as long as it helps their agenda." Dr Sangay elaborated.
In his view, China's influence operations go far beyond the region of South Asia. "I've seen European ministers praising China, only to subsequently end up with jobs as directors in Chinese companies for $100,000 or more. Sometimes even $888,000 a year. That's how China buys influence," he said.
He made a threat to Indian leaders both on and off the political line. "All must be careful - ruling party, opposition, business leaders, journalists. China doesn't mind whom they buy as long as it serves their agenda."
Dr Sangay also attributed Beijing's influence efforts to its overall strategic objective of encircling India. "Why is China supporting Maldives, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal? Why are they blocking UN resolutions against terrorists who attack India? Because they want to hem India in and dominate South Asia," he stated.
Emphasizing the risks of China's economic influence, he pointed to India's trade deficit. "India buys $113 billion worth of goods from China but sells only $14 billion. That's a $99 billion deficit. It means fewer factories, less manufacturing, fewer jobs in India. Engagement with China is not just lopsided, it's dangerous," he cautioned.
He also questioned the now-defunct idea, argued by Henry Kissinger, that China was headed toward democracy through trade. "The West invested 30 years in this fantasy. Rather than China becoming democratic, China has become more antagonistic. I hope India doesn't make the same error," he stated.
In already strained border relations, Dr Sangay's warning is that China's challenge to India is not limited to the military sphere but includes political and economic spheres as well. He ended on a stark note: "If you think you can engage with China and profit from it, you're mistaken. Beijing's game is elite capture, and India must guard against it before it's too late."
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