The Role of International Law in the India-China Brahmaputra River Dispute

The Role of International Law in the India-China Brahmaputra River Dispute Abstract The Brahmaputra River, one of India's most majestic waterways, originates in the icy heights of the Himalayas in Tibet. As it flows southwest through the Tibetan Plateau, it is known as the Yarlung Tsangpo River. Upon entering India, it assumes the name Siang in Arunachal Pradesh, before merging with the Debang and Lohit rivers to form the Brahmaputra. The river then traverses through the states of Assam and Bangladesh, eventually emptying into the Bay of Bengal. With its immense length of approximately 2,900 kilometers, the Brahmaputra supports a rich ecosystem, nourishing the fertile valleys and wetlands along its course. The construction of dams by China on the Brahmaputra river has raised significant security concerns for India, including the potential for water scarcity, flooding, and disruption of India's water management systems. This paper examines the role of international law in addressing India's security concerns related to Chinese dam construction. It analyzes the relevant principles of international water law, including the principles of equitable utilization, reasonable use, and no harm. The paper also examines the mechanisms available under international law for resolving water disputes, including negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and judicial settlement. Furthermore, it discusses the implications of the UN Watercourses Convention and other relevant international instruments for the India-China water dispute. The paper concludes by highlighting the need for India and China to engage in cooperative and diplomatic efforts to address their shared water concerns and to ensure the sustainable management of the Brahmaputra river basin.