Beijing: China's growing presence in South Asia has sparked concerns among political analysts, who view the expansion as driven by hegemonic ambitions and aggressive strategies similar to those used in other neighboring regions. Over the past decade, China has cultivated stronger ties with political parties in the region, offering financially unviable loans and leveraging these relationships to enhance its influence.

The Chinese Communist Party (CPC) has used its connections with political parties to gain significant economic advantages, bypassing traditional state-to-state diplomatic channels and establishing ideological ties with foreign political elites. This strategy undermines democratic processes, as China provides financial and ideological support to specific parties, swaying political outcomes in its favor and eroding the sovereignty of South Asian countries.

China's actions aim not only to diminish New Delhi's traditional influence and strategic advantage in the region but also to expand Beijing's position as a regional hegemon. These ambitions are evident in China's status as the largest exporter of military equipment to Dhaka and its various infrastructure loans to Bangladesh, among other countries. However, Beijing has faced criticism for its inability to assist during crises, further exacerbating economic shocks in the region.

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China’s flagship project, has been criticized for its economically unfeasible loans, burdening South Asian countries with significant financial losses. These projects have often created more problems for host countries than they have solved, leading to increased financial vulnerability.

By providing such loans to countries like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, China has gained leverage over their political decisions, including docking surveillance vessels in their ports and accessing critical infrastructure. This strategy has significantly expanded China's influence in South Asia.

Countries including Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives, Sri Lanka, and India have experienced China's hegemonic overtures. The CPC has promoted pro-China candidates on social media and provided development projects to their constituencies, creating a clear message: financial support is contingent on pro-China policies. This raises concerns about foreign meddling in democratic practices and infringements on sovereignty.

The intrusion of Chinese influence in South Asian politics and economics necessitates a coordinated response. Like-minded democratic states should limit Beijing’s involvement in their domestic affairs and exercise caution when negotiating loan terms with China. A common deterrence strategy is crucial to prevent interference with democratic processes and ensure the sovereignty and stability of South Asian countries.

China's strategic efforts to expand its influence and project power in South Asia have significant implications for regional stability and international relations. To counter these ambitions, South Asian countries must develop comprehensive strategies to protect their democratic processes and economic independence from Beijing’s encroachments.