Taliban India Relations in Post-US Withdrawal Era

Abstract

The withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan in 2021, the collapse of the Democratic government, and the rise of the Taliban regime marked a significant turning point in Indian foreign policy objectives towards Afghanistan. Historically, India's relations with the Taliban have been marked by tension and mistrust. However, prior to the post-withdrawal era, the collapse of the government in 2021 and the Taliban's seizure of power caused tension for India. India evacuated its citizens from Afghanistan and refused to recognize the Taliban regime as a legitimate government. The positive transition of Taliban-India relations took place when the Taliban sought international legitimacy and support to address the humanitarian and economic crisis in Afghanistan. India has sought to engage with the Taliban in a cautious and pragmatic manner, demanding that they meet certain conditions, such as, respecting women's and minorities rights, severing ties with terrorist groups, and preventing Afghanistan from becoming a haven for terrorist Groups. This research aims to explore the implications of this shift of power for regional dynamics, through an inclusive analysis of India's foreign policy objectives towards the Taliban, this research provides an understanding of the complex geopolitical dynamics of the region and the opportunities and challenges for India's role in Afghanistan's future. Considering all things this research is analyze the India evolving relations with Taliban in post US withdrawal era, how return of Taliban regime changes geopolitical dynamics of the region for India. This research aims to provide comprehensive analyses on transformation of India-Taliban relations from historical rivalry to pragmatic engagement and analyze the factors driving this transformation. This research aims to provide an insights into evolving dynamics of Taliban-India relationship which are now being examined through the lens of Offensive realism. Therefore by relating Taliban and India relations, this research will provide a collective data under one research by critically examining and analyzing the changing dynamics behind the transformations.