Abstract Sovereignty is one of the core principles of the modern international system and refers to the authority of a state to govern itself without external interference. However, in the contemporary era of globalization, economic interdependence, digital dominance, and geopolitical alliances, scholars increasingly debate whether powerful global actors can indirectly constrain the sovereignty of emerging nations. This research paper examines the concept of sovereignty and analyzes arguments that Western powers and global institutions may hold aspects of national decision‑making “hostage” through economic systems, military alliances, technological dominance, and diplomatic narratives. Using India as a case study, the paper explores historical foundations of sovereignty, mechanisms of influence in the global order, and contemporary examples such as the Iran–Israel–United States conflict and the global oil and gas crisis. The study also evaluates India’s strategy of strategic auton...