It's not random, it's a very specific act. They challenge claims they don't recognise to prevent them becoming accepted as de-facto. For an analogy that'd be

It's not random, it's a very specific act. They challenge claims they don't recognise to prevent them becoming accepted as de-facto. For an analogy that'd be "closer to home", it's very similar to defending a trademark to prevent it becoming generic. The fact that India claims this right doesn't extend to military vessels (despite UNCLOS allowing it) is what requires this action. If they seek permission first, they're not defending the right, they're cementing that permission is required.