The Transition in Bangladesh

Source-This post on The Transition in Bangladesh Stability has been created based on the article “A Bangladesh without Sheikh Hasina, a reset for Delhi” published in “The Indian Express” on 13 August 2024.

UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-2- India and its Neighborhood- Relations.

Context- The recent political upheaval in Bangladesh, marked by the removal of the former Prime Minister and the rise of an interim government, raises serious concerns about a possible return to past issues like winner-takes-all politics, religious extremism, and geopolitical rivalries, which impact both Bangladesh and its neighbors.

India follows a policy of not interfering in other countries’ internal politics, including Bangladesh. Even though India is seen as having influence over Dhaka, it has respected this principle and avoided intervening in Bangladesh’s internal political matters during Sheikh Hasina’s time in power.

What is the significance of India-Bangladesh relations?

1) Security Cooperation- For almost 15 years, Bangladesh effectively stopped terrorist and insurgent groups from exploiting its territory against India. This is due to the efforts of its government and robust collaboration with India.

A detailed article on Sheikh Hasina’s Exit and India Bangladesh Relations can be read here.

2) Connectivity: The countries have enhanced their security collaboration and multi-modal connectivity.

3) Trade and Commerce: Bilateral trade reached $18 billion in 2021-22.

4) Energy-Bangladesh imports 1,160 MW of power from India, highlighting a major advancement in their energy partnership.

5) People-to-People Ties– Each year, over 1.5 million Bangladeshis visit India for tourism, business, and medical care. India’s recognition of Bangladesh’s achievements in literacy, infant mortality, and women’s empowerment, along with the success of its garment industry and Grameen Bank’s microfinance model, reflects admiration and has influenced Indian businesses.

What are the Ongoing Challenges?

A) Border Issues: – There are ongoing concerns in Bangladesh about incidents with Indian security forces at the border, even though India is working to reduce these incidents.

B) River Water Sharing: Equitable sharing of river waters, a priority for Bangladesh, remains challenging due to India’s growing needs. Resolving these issues requires continued political will and persistence.

What should be the way forward?

1) Recognize Shared Development Goals-As new forces emerge in Bangladesh, young leaders should recognize that many Indians share their development goals. Both countries face issues like poverty and climate change, which require cooperation to address.

2) Embracing Future Opportunities- India and Bangladesh should look to the future with optimism, seizing the opportunities from recent political changes while avoiding past conflicts.

Question for practice

What is the importance of India-Bangladesh relations, and what are the current challenges?