Domestic Fundamentalism, Strategic Traps and Indian Offensive Strategic Behavior: A Neo-Classical Analysis

The paper examines the relationship between two variables to understand contemporary offensive posture in India's strategic behavior at the regional and international levels. First, Hindutva fundamentalism, as a domestic variable, and the structural dictation named strategic traps. The analysis uses a neo-classical realist approach to understand the emerging offensive character of Indian strategic behavior at the regional and international levels. The design uses the explanatory method and deductive reasoning for analysis. Hindutva ideology increasingly shapes India's domestic political landscape, resulting in a new orientation in its governance structure. It also led to offensive approaches in India's foreign policy and security decision-making. The strategic consequences of this fundamentalist governance heighten the risks of miscalculation at the regional and global level. The strategic traps are also dictating India's offensive behavior, as major powers did not endorse India's bid to join the NSG. As a result, India is adopting a reactive, fundamentalist approach in its strategic moves.