India and Bangladesh’s Evolving Relationship

Source: This article India and Bangladesh’s Evolving Relationship is based on “Two to tango” published in The Hindu on 11^th December 2024.

UPSC Syllabus: GS Paper 2 International relations

Context: The article explores the evolving dynamics and challenges in the bilateral India and Bangladesh’s Evolving Relationship.

What is the current state of relations between India and Bangladesh?

1. Relations between India and Bangladesh have been deteriorating recently, following a series of incidents that have strained bilateral ties.
2. These include India’s concerns over attacks on minorities, particularly Hindus in Bangladesh, and Bangladesh’s frustration with what it perceives as undue Indian interference.
3. Additionally, tensions have been exacerbated by the continued stay of Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in India, with Bangladesh calling for her trial over allegations of corruption and police crackdowns.

What prompted Indian Foreign Secretary visit to Dhaka?

1. Indian Foreign Secretary one-day visit to Dhaka aimed to restore some semblance of diplomatic engagement amidst the growing tensions.
2. Misri’s visit was meant to reach out to Bangladesh’s interim government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus, following a period of diplomatic strain between the two nations.

What were the key issues discussed during Misri’s visit?

1. Key topics included border management, trade, connectivity, and cooperation in sectors like water, energy, development, consular matters, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people ties.
2. Misri also addressed concerns over incidents involving attacks on cultural, religious, and diplomatic properties, underscoring India’s desire to work closely with Bangladesh’s interim government.

How did Bangladesh’s interim government respond to India’s outreach?

1. Bangladesh’s interim government acknowledged the strong and close relationship with India, describing it as “very solid.”
2. Yunus urged India to help clear the “clouds” hanging over the relationship and emphasized that statements from Prime Minister Hasina were causing internal tensions in Bangladesh, something India should take into account.

What role does Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina play in the current tension?

1. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s extended stay in India has been a source of tension.
2. Bangladesh has called for her to be tried for corruption and police crackdowns, and her remarks have been seen as exacerbating internal tensions in Bangladesh.
3. These issues have contributed to the growing distance between India and Bangladesh.

What has been the impact of these tensions on India’s regional relations?

The deterioration of relations with Bangladesh is part of a broader regional challenge for India. Changes in government in Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives have created new challenges for India, and the ouster of an India-friendly leader in Bangladesh has further strained the relationship. India now faces the need to adapt to these new political realities in Bangladesh.

What is the way forward for India and Bangladesh?

1. The visit of Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri signals an attempt to reset ties and navigate these challenges.
2. India must engage with Bangladesh’s new realities and continue to nurture a consultative, cooperative relationship based on mutual interests.
3. While addressing issues like minority rights and democratic processes, India must also be receptive to Bangladesh’s concerns and work toward a strong, enduring partnership.