Indo-Bangla ties strain amid recent tensions
Abu Jakir :
India and Bangladesh, though often described as friendly and cooperative neighbours, are currently facing significant challenges in their relationship.
While New Delhi has reiterated its commitment to fostering a “positive, constructive, and mutually beneficial relationship” with Dhaka, recent developments have strained the partnership.
One such incident involved the Indian Coast Guard detaining two Bangladeshi fishing vessels, FV Meghna-5 and FV Laila-2, near the maritime boundary.
The vessels, operating in the deep-sea fishing zone near Khulna’s Hiron Point, carried 79 sailors who were confirmed to be in good health.
Nevertheless, the seizure has drawn criticism in Bangladesh, with some accusing India of adopting an antagonistic stance.
Adding to the tensions, a protest organised by the Civil Society of Delhi, supported by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), marched towards the Bangladeshi Embassy in Delhi on 10 December.
The protest, attended by an estimated 3,000 to 4,000 individuals, called attention to alleged persecution of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh.
This demonstration has heightened sensitivities, particularly as it coincides with a rise in communal rhetoric from Indian political leaders.
The bilateral relationship has been increasingly marred by hostile rhetoric on social media, inflammatory political statements, and provocative actions. An attack on the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission in India has further exacerbated the situation.
Anti-Bangladesh remarks by Indian political figures, including members of the BJP, have drawn sharp criticism.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s suggestion of deploying United Nations peacekeepers in Bangladesh provoked significant backlash, adding another layer to the strained dynamics.
In Bangladesh, anti-India sentiments have resurfaced in response to perceived aggression. Protests have included symbolic gestures such as burning Indian goods.
Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, BNP Joint Secretary General, criticised India’s actions and accused it of undermining Bangladesh’s sovereignty. During a protest in Rajshahi, Rizvi burned an Indian bedsheet and stated:
“India treats us like second-class citizens. The people of Bangladesh fought for their independence with immense sacrifice and deserve respect, not interference.”
Earlier, BNP-affiliated organisations submitted a memorandum to the Indian High Commission in Dhaka, demanding an end to misinformation about Bangladesh and urging the protection of Bangladeshi missions in India.
The memorandum also called for investigations into the attack on Bangladesh’s Assistant High Commission in Agartala and the safeguarding of minority rights in both countries.
The media in both nations have played a significant role in intensifying tensions.
Indian outlets have published critical reports about Bangladesh, often dismissed by Dhaka as unfounded propaganda.
Meanwhile, Bangladeshi leaders have emphasised the importance of mutual respect and non-interference.
Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, a BNP Standing Committee member, criticised India’s involvement in Bangladesh’s domestic affairs, stating:
“The government and people of Bangladesh are capable of resolving their issues without outside interference.”
The current challenges are reminiscent of previous strains in the India-Bangladesh relationship. Despite such issues, geographical proximity and historical ties make India a vital partner for Bangladesh.
Analysts highlight the need for responsible and constructive dialogue to restore trust and stability.
Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri has emphasised the importance of “people-centric partnerships” and expressed New Delhi’s intent to strengthen ties through development projects.
However, analysts caution that meaningful actions are needed to match these words and rebuild confidence between the two neighbours.
While both governments express a desire to ease tensions, the incidents underscore the fragile nature of the relationship.
For these neighbouring nations, mutual respect, restraint, and constructive dialogue remain essential to overcoming the current turbulence and preserving their historically cooperative bond.