India Reluctantly Conceded Strategic Island to Sri Lanka Despite Strong Historical Claim
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Documents show India's indecision over conceding control of Katchatheevu island to Sri Lanka until 1974, despite having a stronger legal claim based on historical rights.
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Prime Minister Nehru was willing to give up India's claims as early as 1961, dismissing the island as inconsequential.
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There was opposition criticism in Parliament in 1968-69 about quietly negotiating away the island, but the government emphasized good bilateral ties over an uninhabited disputed area.
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By 1973 foreign secretary talks, India cited practical reasons like potential oil reserves, China's influence in Sri Lanka, and reluctance to go to the World Court.
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Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Karunanidhi readily agreed to relinquish India's claim when informed in 1974, despite being presented India's stronger case.