India supports Mauritius' claim over Chagos Archipelago
India has long supported Mauritius in its claim over the Chagos Archipelago, a group of islands in the Indian Ocean. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Mauritius aims to reinforce this support, especially regarding the sovereignty issue. The Chagos Archipelago, which includes the strategically important Diego Garcia airbase, has been under British control since Mauritius gained independence in 1968. The UK expelled the Chagossians to establish the base, leading to significant hardships for the displaced population. India's backing of Mauritius aligns with its broader commitment to decolonization and maritime security in the Indian Ocean. This stance reflects India's historical advocacy for ending colonial rule and maintaining regional stability amid rising Chinese influence.