The recent political upheaval in Bangladesh, marked by Sheikh Hasina's fall from power and her reported refuge in India, has further complicated bilateral relations. This development has intensified allegations of Indian interference, and if India continues to shelter Hasina, it could deepen anti-India sentiments in Bangladesh. The perception of India as a “big brother” undermining Bangladeshi sovereignty could hinder future diplomatic engagement. The way forward is to reshape India’s foreign policy keeping in mind the need to rebuild trust and enhance cooperation.
India can recalibrate its foreign policy toward Bangladesh by engaging all political stakeholders. India should engage with a broader spectrum of political parties in Bangladesh, including the BNP, Jamaat and other opposition groups, to demonstrate neutrality and respect for democratic processes. Over the past 15 years, its interactions have been largely limited to the Awami League, rather than the broader populace of Bangladesh. Secondly, there is a need to address perceptions of interference. By adopting a non-interventionist stance and refraining from supporting any particular political faction, India can counter allegations of political meddling. Thirdly, the focus should be on resolving contentious issues. Proactively addressing water disputes, border security concerns, and trade imbalances would foster goodwill.
Transparent communication on water-sharing agreements, such as the Teesta River dispute, is essential. Fourthly, economic cooperation and regional integration are the need of the hour. India and Bangladesh should work toward more balanced trade relations and enhanced connectivity. India could support Bangladesh's economic growth by investing in mutually beneficial projects. Additionally, revitalizing SAARC or promoting other regional platforms could enhance regional cooperation. Lastly, there should be a focus on respecting sovereignty and public sentiments. India must be sensitive to Bangladeshi public opinion and respect its sovereignty. A partnership based on mutual respect, rather than a hierarchical “big brother” approach, would be more sustainable.
India and Bangladesh are inextricably linked by geography, history, and cultural ties. While political controversies have strained relations, there is significant potential for cooperation in trade, connectivity, security, and environmental sustainability. For a more stable and productive relationship, India must pursue a more balanced, respectful, and people-centric foreign policy toward Bangladesh. This approach would not only strengthen bilateral ties but also contribute to regional stability and security in South Asia.
India and Bangladesh share a complex and multi-dimensional relationship shaped by geography, history, and regional politics. Since Bangladesh’s independence in 1971, which India played a crucial role in supporting, the bilateral ties have fluctuated between cooperation and tension. In recent years, particularly under the leadership of Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League, the relationship has been notably close, but this closeness has also sparked controversies and resentment in certain sections of Bangladeshi society.
**Historical context and political dynamics**
India supported Bangladesh's independence in 1971, leading to strong historical ties. However, the political dynamics in Bangladesh have significantly influenced bilateral relations. Under the Awami League, led by Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh maintained a pro-India stance, enhancing cooperation in trade, security, and connectivity. However, accusations of India's undue influence in Bangladesh's internal politics have sparked anti-Indian sentiments. These allegations are partly fueled by the perception that India has supported the Awami League’s prolonged rule, sometimes at the expense of democratic norms. Former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee's writings have also been interpreted as evidence of India's political involvement in Bangladesh, intensifying these sentiments.
**Controversies and criticisms**
Several contentious issues have marred the relationship like India’s political influence. There is a widespread belief in Bangladesh that India played a role in keeping Sheikh Hasina in power, undermining democratic processes. Time and again there have been concerns about human rights violations during Hasina’s regime and there is a sentiment whether New Delhi turned a blind eye to it. India's river-linking projects, like the Tipaimukh Dam, have been a source of contention too due to potential ecological impacts on Bangladesh.
Despite political tensions, economic interdependence between India and Bangladesh has grown. Bangladesh is India’s largest trading partner in South Asia. India has invested in connectivity projects, energy cooperation, and infrastructure development in Bangladesh. However, the trade imbalance, with Bangladesh importing far more from India than it exports, remains a point of contention. Additionally, India's involvement in regional politics is an area that can be re-examined to improve relations not just with the people of Bangladesh but also with the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).
**_(The author is a political and human rights analyst )_**
**_The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of THE WEEK._**