> In 1950, three years after independence, Sikkim became a protectorate of the new republic. The kingdom had autonomy in domestic matters but India was responsi

> In 1950, three years after independence, Sikkim became a protectorate of the new republic. The kingdom had autonomy in domestic matters but India was responsible for defence, external affairs and communications. That is an annexation playbook as old as time. The Romans did it, the British did it(for example the Princely states in India which were technically "independent"), and I am sure other Empires and great powers have done it was well.