India-Bangladesh Relations, Impact Amidst Unrest on Internal Security

PWOnlyIAS August 09, 2024 04:00 2785 0

India-Bangladesh Relations may lead to political instability after Muhammad Yunus took oath as head of Bangladesh’s interim government. Get more insights into India-Bangladesh Relations and historic-ties here.

India-Bangladesh Relations, Impact Amidst Unrest on Internal Security

India-Bangladesh relations have evolved significantly over the years, and they are marked by cooperation, mutual respect, and shared cultural and historical ties. However, the relationship also faces challenges, particularly in the context of internal security amidst unrest. Keep on reading to explore various aspects of India-Bangladesh relations, focusing on historical ties, current issues, and security challenges.

Impact of Recent Crisis on India-Bangladesh Relations

The political landscape in Bangladesh is undergoing significant changes. A new regime has been formed in Bangladesh, with Muhammad Yunus emerging as the leader of an interim government. This shift offers India an opportunity to reset its relationship with Bangladesh, emphasizing mutual cooperation and economic ties.

A New Regime in Bangladesh

  • Muhammad Yunus’s Leadership: Known for his work in microfinance, Yunus advocates for a new politics focused on openness, inclusion, and economic development.
  • India’s Strategic Interests: India must navigate the potential shift in Bangladesh’s political alignment, especially concerning security and economic partnerships.
  • Strengthening Ties: This transition could allow India to deepen value chain linkages and forge stronger relations with Bangladesh on a new, cooperative basis.

India Bangladesh Relation Reboot

As Bangladesh navigates its political transition, India has the chance to build a more robust partnership with its neighbor. The emphasis should be on fostering mutual benefits, particularly in areas like economic collaboration and regional stability. Muhammad Yunus’s leadership, with his vision for economic and social progress, could catalyze a new chapter in India-Bangladesh relations, moving beyond historical grievances and towards a future of shared prosperity.

In an interview, Muhammad Yunus expressed disappointment with India’s stance on the protests in Bangladesh, arguing that when there’s trouble in a neighboring country, it shouldn’t be dismissed as an internal matter. He used the analogy of a fire in a brother’s house to emphasize that neighboring countries should show concern and take action rather than remain indifferent.

Historical Context of India-Bangladesh Relations

India-Bangladesh relations date back to 1971 when India played a crucial role in the liberation of Bangladesh from Pakistan. This historical event laid the foundation for a strong bilateral relationship. Over the years, both countries have worked on various fronts, including trade, connectivity, and cultural exchange, to strengthen their ties.

  • India-Bangladesh Relations History: The historical ties between India and Bangladesh are rooted in cultural, linguistic, and political connections. The relationship has been reinforced through various agreements and collaborative efforts post-1971.

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What is the Main Issue between India and Bangladesh?

Despite the strong bilateral ties, there are several issues that pose challenges to India-Bangladesh relations:

  1. Border Management:
    • India-Bangladesh Border: The India-Bangladesh border is approximately 4,096 kilometers long, making it the fifth-longest international border in the world.
    • Indo-Bangladesh Border Security: Managing this extensive border has been challenging due to illegal migration, smuggling, and trafficking.
  2. Water Sharing Disputes:
    • The sharing of river waters, particularly the Teesta River, remains a contentious issue. Both countries are working towards a mutually agreeable solution.
  3. Security Concerns:
    • Bangladesh Political Unrest: Political instability in Bangladesh can have spillover effects on India’s internal security.
    • Attack on Hindus in Bangladesh: Communal attacks in Bangladesh have led to tensions and concerns in India, given the shared cultural and religious ties.

Current Issues and Challenges

  • Bangladesh Crisis: The recent political and social unrest in Bangladesh poses significant challenges. The instability can affect border management and internal security in India.
  • India-Bangladesh Relations UPSC: For UPSC aspirants, understanding these dynamic and complex relations is crucial for both the Prelims and Mains examinations.

Impact of Sheikh Hasina’s Resignation on India-Bangladesh Relations

Sheikh Hasina’s resignation could lead to political instability in Bangladesh, affecting India-Bangladesh relations in several ways. Her departure may increase the influence of radical elements, potentially heightening security concerns along the 4,096-kilometer India-Bangladesh border. 

Economic ties might also be impacted due to potential changes in trade policies. Additionally, ongoing negotiations on water-sharing agreements, like the Teesta River dispute, could face delays. This shift could alter regional alliances and dynamics, requiring India to engage proactively with the new leadership in Bangladesh.

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Key Points

  • Political Instability: Bangladesh’s Political Unrest may cause potential power vacuum and conflicts among political factions.
  • Security Concerns: Increased influence of radical elements and cross-border illegal activities.
  • Economic Impact: Possible changes in trade policies and economic cooperation.
  • Water Sharing Disputes: Delays in negotiations like the Teesta River agreement.
  • Regional Dynamics: Shifts in Bangladesh’s foreign policy affecting regional alliances.

Security and India Bangladesh Border Management

Effective border management is crucial to maintaining security and fostering good relations:

  • India Bangladesh Border Length: The border’s extensive length requires coordinated efforts to manage security, prevent illegal activities, and facilitate legitimate trade and movement.
  • Total Border of India and Bangladesh: The total length of the border is a key factor in the challenges faced in securing it effectively.
  • How Many Indian States Share Bangladesh Border: Five Indian states share a border with Bangladesh – West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram.

Recent Developments

India and Bangladesh continue to work on strengthening their relations through various initiatives:

  • Trade and Connectivity: Both countries are working to enhance trade and improve connectivity through infrastructure projects like rail and road links.
  • Cultural Exchange: Promoting cultural ties through events, educational exchanges, and tourism.

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FAQs On India-Bangladesh relations

India-Bangladesh relations date back to 1971, when India supported Bangladesh's liberation from Pakistan, establishing strong bilateral ties.

Key issues include border management, water sharing disputes, and security concerns related to political unrest and communal tensions in Bangladesh.

The India-Bangladesh border is approximately 4,096 kilometers long.

Five Indian states share a border with Bangladesh: West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram.

Security challenges include managing the long border to prevent illegal activities and addressing the impacts of political unrest and communal tensions in Bangladesh.
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