Rokan's Journal

In December 1971, India’s intervention in the Bangladesh Liberation War marked a critical moment in South Asia’s history. With the support of Indian forces, Bangladesh achieved independence after nine grueling months of war against Pakistan, bringing an end to a brutal campaign of genocide and displacement. India’s role in the independence of Bangladesh was pivotal, sparking what many hoped would be a partnership built on shared values and mutual respect. The geographic proximity of the two nations, with India enveloping Bangladesh on three sides, suggested a future of close collaboration and camaraderie. However, as history unfolded, it became clear that the relationship between these neighboring countries would be far more complex than anticipated, marred by mistrust, resentment, and conflicting interests.

The Early Strains of India-Bangladesh Relations: From Liberation to Lingering Resentment

Following Bangladesh’s hard-won independence in 1971, relations with India—its liberator—began with optimism and shared visions for the future. The people of Bangladesh had suffered immensely under Pakistani rule, enduring a brutal campaign that resulted in the deaths of millions and the displacement of countless others. India’s intervention in December 1971, under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, was a decisive turning point in the conflict, ending the war in just nine days. But the anticipated path of mutual respect and solidarity between India and Bangladesh was short-lived, quickly giving way to strains that continue to reverberate through the relationship today.

The Surrender and Symbolic Wounds

Bangladesh’s liberation was formally marked by the surrender of the Pakistani forces on December 16, 1971. However, the terms and conduct of this surrender would plant the seeds of resentment for years to come. The formal instrument of surrender was signed not between Bangladeshi and Pakistani commanders, but between Indian General Jagjit Singh Aurora and Pakistani General A. A. K. Niazi. The absence of a Bangladeshi military presence at the table gave the impression that this was more a victory for India over Pakistan than a moment of triumph for the Bangladeshi people.

To many Bangladeshi freedom fighters, who had risked their lives in the struggle for independence, the surrender symbolized a diminishing of their sacrifices. The additional requirement for Bangladeshi forces to lay down their arms to Indian troops further emphasized the sense of a subordinated victory, as if they were not warriors in their own right but part of a larger Indian campaign. This symbolic act left a wound that would fester as Bangladesh sought to define its own identity on the global stage, independent from the influence of its powerful neighbor.

The Farakka Barrage: A Source of Economic and Environmental Pain

If the surrender laid the emotional groundwork for suspicion, the construction of the Farakka Barrage in 1975 provided concrete evidence, in the eyes of many Bangladeshis, of India’s overreach and disregard for Bangladeshi sovereignty. Built near the border between the two countries, the barrage was designed to divert water from the Ganges River into India’s Hooghly River basin, primarily to maintain the flow needed for the port of Kolkata. However, this diversion of water, crucial for the survival of Bangladeshi agriculture and livelihoods, had devastating effects downstream.

The Ganges River, one of the major water sources for Bangladesh, supports vast agricultural lands, fisheries, and the basic water needs of millions of people. When India began diverting this water, Bangladesh felt the consequences almost immediately. The river’s reduced flow led to increased salinity in Bangladesh’s coastal areas, damaging fertile farmlands, and compromising the health of fisheries that provided food and employment for countless communities.

The environmental impact was stark. Higher salinity levels in the water and soil made it difficult for farmers to grow crops that had sustained them for generations. Traditional crops like rice, wheat, and jute struggled in the changed soil conditions, leading to lower yields and economic strain on already struggling farming communities. Fisheries, a key source of both food and income, saw significant declines in fish populations, particularly in sensitive species that could not survive in the more saline waters. This further destabilized the livelihoods of many Bangladeshi families, pushing some into poverty and forcing others to seek work elsewhere.

The barrage’s effects were not confined to the agricultural sector. In rural villages near the affected river basins, public health also suffered. Freshwater shortages led to increased reliance on unsafe water sources, leading to a rise in waterborne diseases. For many Bangladeshis, especially those living near the border, the Farakka Barrage became emblematic of India’s willingness to prioritize its own interests at the expense of Bangladesh’s welfare.

Fueling Anti-Indian Sentiment: Farakka as a Symbol of Economic and Political Imbalance

The economic hardships brought on by the Farakka Barrage quickly took on a political dimension. In the eyes of many Bangladeshis, India’s actions were not just about water; they represented a larger pattern of disregard for Bangladesh’s sovereignty and well-being. For a young nation struggling to establish its own identity, the barrage was a painful reminder of its vulnerability in the face of a much larger, more powerful neighbor. It underscored the asymmetry in the relationship, where Bangladesh’s needs were seemingly overlooked whenever they conflicted with India’s priorities.

This sense of injustice catalyzed a wave of anti-Indian sentiment that permeated the Bangladeshi psyche and persists to this day. For many, Farakka was not just an environmental issue but a symbol of India’s heavy-handed approach to its neighbors. It became a rallying point for political movements and nationalist rhetoric within Bangladesh, particularly among groups that opposed any form of alignment or dependence on India. The resentment fueled by the barrage fed into the perception that India viewed Bangladesh not as an equal partner but as a subordinate state, reinforcing fears that India sought to dominate rather than support its smaller neighbor.

Lingering Grievances and the Struggle for Water Rights

The issues surrounding Farakka are part of a larger struggle over shared river systems, which remain a source of tension between the two countries. Bangladesh, as a lower riparian state, relies on the equitable distribution of water resources for its survival. However, agreements over water-sharing have often fallen short of Bangladesh’s expectations, with promises of cooperation either delayed or compromised.

Efforts to reach a comprehensive water-sharing agreement have been sporadic and often contentious. The 1996 Ganges Water Treaty, which aimed to manage the flow of water between the two countries, was a step toward addressing these grievances but has faced challenges in implementation. Periodic droughts and floods in Bangladesh, exacerbated by water management issues upstream, continue to stoke anger and resentment, with the barrage frequently resurfacing as a reminder of India’s perceived disregard for Bangladeshi needs.

A Legacy of Distrust and the Path Forward

The Farakka Barrage and the early post-independence tensions set a challenging foundation for India-Bangladesh relations, casting a shadow over decades of diplomatic efforts. For Bangladeshis, Farakka symbolizes the pitfalls of dependence on a powerful neighbor, one that they feel has not always acted in their best interest. For India, it is a reminder of the complexities involved in balancing national interests with the sensitivities of neighboring states.

As both nations move forward, addressing the grievances around water-sharing could serve as a crucial step in rebuilding trust. Collaborative efforts to manage shared river systems in an equitable and transparent way would go a long way in healing the scars left by Farakka. Moreover, by acknowledging and addressing the economic and environmental impacts of its actions, India has an opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to a fairer, more respectful partnership with Bangladesh.

Ultimately, the Farakka Barrage represents a broader struggle for mutual respect and recognition between the two nations. By working to overcome this legacy of distrust, both India and Bangladesh can aspire to a future where shared resources are a foundation for cooperation rather than a source of conflict.

Economic and Cultural Ties: A Complex and Unequal Relationship

The economic relationship between India and Bangladesh is an essential part of their bilateral ties, but it remains fraught with imbalances that have long been a source of resentment among Bangladeshis. Bangladesh contributes significantly to India’s economy, with exports and trade flows reaching around $1.5 billion annually. Yet despite these contributions, Bangladeshi exporters often face substantial challenges in accessing Indian markets. Heavy tariffs, non-tariff barriers, and complex regulatory requirements effectively limit Bangladeshi products’ reach, creating an economic environment that feels one-sided.

A Persistent Trade Imbalance and Its Economic Toll

One of the primary sources of frustration in Bangladesh-India economic relations is the persistent trade deficit Bangladesh faces with India. The flow of goods is far from equal, with Bangladeshi products encountering bureaucratic obstacles and protectionist measures at Indian borders. Key Bangladeshi exports like jute, fish, leather goods, and textiles face heavy tariffs and numerous non-tariff barriers, including rigorous standards and inspections that delay shipments and increase costs. These hurdles make Bangladeshi goods less competitive, further widening the trade gap.

For Bangladesh’s economy, heavily reliant on exports to fuel growth, this deficit imposes real economic hardships. The trade imbalance reduces the flow of foreign currency into Bangladesh and exacerbates a sense of economic dependency on India. For many Bangladeshis, this inequitable dynamic feels like exploitation rather than a partnership, with India seemingly leveraging its economic size to secure access to Bangladesh’s markets while restrictingreciprocal access for Bangladeshi products. Over time, this has created a perception that India views Bangladesh primarily as a consumer market for its goods rather than a partner in mutually beneficial trade.

Efforts to address this issue through fairer trade agreements have been limited. Attempts at negotiating more balanced terms are often bogged down by the complex nature of regional trade politics and India’s reluctance to fully open its markets to Bangladeshi goods. This has led to a situation where Bangladeshi producers and small business owners feel disadvantaged, struggling to gain fair access to one of the largest markets in South Asia despite the geographical proximity and shared historical ties.

The Influence of Indian Culture in Bangladesh: A Mixed Blessing

Ironically, even as economic grievances build up, Indian culture has firmly embedded itself in the lives of many Bangladeshis. Bollywood movies, Indian music, and fashion trends enjoy widespread popularity in Bangladesh, symbolizing a powerful form of cultural influence that transcends economic and political frictions. Bollywood stars are household names, Indian soap operas dominate television screens, and Indian fashion trends set the tone for weddings and festivals. This cultural affinity has fostered a unique bond, where Bangladeshis readily adopt elements of Indian culture even while harboring economic and political grievances.

This soft power influence has a significant economic impact as well. Indian products, from electronics to textiles and from automobiles to household goods, dominate Bangladeshi markets. The popularity of Indian goods among Bangladeshi consumers provides India with a strong foothold in the Bangladeshi economy, bolstering Indian exports. Yet, the flow of goods and cultural products from India into Bangladesh starkly contrasts with the difficulties Bangladeshi goods face entering Indian markets. Indian companies benefit from the high demand in Bangladesh, while Bangladeshi businesses and cultural exports struggle to achieve the same level of penetration in India.

A Paradox of Cultural Affinity and Economic Resentment

This creates an unusual paradox: while Bangladeshis openly embrace Indian cultural exports, there is a lingering skepticism about India’s economic and political intentions. Many Bangladeshis appreciate Bollywood and Indian music, but they are wary of India’s approach to economic relations and trade. The enthusiastic acceptance of Indian culture is tempered by a feeling that this cultural relationship does not translate into economic fairness or respect. The disparity between the soft power appeal of Indian culture and the perceived imbalance in economic treatment leads to a complex relationship, where admiration for Indian culture coexists uneasily with economic discontent.

For younger generations in Bangladesh, who consume vast amounts of Indian media and fashion, this paradox is particularly pronounced. They grow up with a cultural connection to India but inherit economic grievances and stories of past injustices, such as the 1975 Farakka Barrage and the economic imbalances that persist to this day. The result is a complex identity, where Bangladeshis are culturally attuned to India but remain cautious of what they see as economic dominance and unequal treatment.

An Opportunity for Economic Diplomacy and Mutual Benefit

The cultural enthusiasm that Bangladesh shows toward India presents an opportunity for India to rebuild trust and establish a more balanced economic partnership. Addressing the trade imbalances and bureaucratic barriers faced by Bangladeshi exporters would signal a genuine commitment to mutual prosperity. By easing tariffs and non-tariff barriers and facilitating smoother access for Bangladeshi goods, India could foster goodwill and strengthen the economic ties that already bind the two nations.

India could also leverage its cultural influence to promote people-to-people exchanges, joint cultural events, and educational opportunities that wouldbenefit both countries. Strengthening cross-border exchanges in sectors such as education, healthcare, and technology could help create an environment of shared growth. Such initiatives would demonstrate India’s commitment to a fairer relationship, one that respects Bangladesh’s sovereignty and acknowledges its contributions to the bilateral partnership.

Looking Ahead: Towards a Relationship of Mutual Respect

For Bangladesh, achieving a more balanced economic relationship with India would mark a step forward in affirming its national identity and economic sovereignty. It would also signal to the Bangladeshi people that their contributions to the relationship are valued and respected, not only culturally but economically as well. As India’s economy continues to grow, it has a chance to reshape its relationship with Bangladesh, moving away from historical imbalances toward a partnership rooted in mutual respect and equitable trade.

By addressing the underlying economic grievances and fostering a sense of genuine partnership, India could bridge the gap between cultural admiration and economic skepticism, paving the way for a future where Bangladeshis view their neighbor as not just a cultural icon, but also an equal and fair economic partner.

The Shadow of Paranoia: Refugees and Religious Tensions

India’s perception of Bangladesh has, at times, been colored by a fear of instability and migration. Bangladesh’s low-lying geography makes it vulnerable to flooding and natural disasters, and with its population density, there is always a looming possibility of environmental refugees seeking safety across the border. These concerns are compounded by religious dynamics, with India’s sizable Muslim minority often being invoked in discussions about migration. Although India harbored millions of refugees during the 1971 war, there is a lingering fear in Indian political circles that a new influx of Bangladeshi refugees would upset India’s socio-political and religious balance.

This paranoia is further stoked by communal tensions within Bangladesh, particularly regarding the treatment of minority Hindus. While Bangladesh has made strides toward creating a pluralistic society, the Hindu minority has not always felt secure, with some claiming systemic discrimination and violence. However, this issue is often viewed through a divisive lens, with some in Bangladesh arguing that Hindus are unfairly criticized and that their concerns are overblown, leading to an even greater sense of misunderstanding and mistrust between the two nations.

Can Bangladesh Forge a Path of Independence?

Bangladesh stands at a crossroads, where it has the opportunity to reassess its approach to its powerful neighbor, India, and strive for a more independent foreign policy that capitalizes on its unique geographic and strategic position. By taking bold steps towards autonomy, Bangladesh can shift its role from a secondary actor to a central player in regional diplomacy, ultimately reducing its dependence on India and enhancing its influence in South Asia.

As a country situated between India and Pakistan—two nuclear-armed rivals locked in longstanding tensions—Bangladesh holds a unique strategic advantage. This position enables Bangladesh to act as a neutral space for dialogue and cooperation between these two powers, should it choose to cultivate that role. By adopting a more independent foreign policy, Bangladesh could transform into a diplomatic bridge between India and Pakistan, encouraging dialogues that contribute to stability in a historically volatile region. This neutrality, coupled with a proactive stance on regional issues, couldincrease Bangladesh’s significance on the global stage and allow it to be viewed not as a nation under India’s influence, but as a sovereign player committed to regional stability and cooperation.

A Vision of Pluralism and Inclusivity

Internally, Bangladesh’s pluralistic society offers a powerful foundation for projecting an image of peace and coexistence that sets a constructive example in South Asia. Bangladesh has a rich history of religious and cultural diversity, with communities of Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians coexisting within its borders. By emphasizing its commitment to minority rights and fostering an inclusive national identity, Bangladesh could stand as a beacon of tolerance in a region often marked by religious divisions. This vision of pluralism, however, must go beyond rhetoric; it requires concrete action in protecting the rights of all citizens, irrespective of their religious or ethnic backgrounds.

Strengthening democratic institutions is also crucial for establishing Bangladesh’s credibility on the global stage. By addressing domestic challenges, such as corruption, and reinforcing the rule of law, Bangladesh can cultivate a stable and transparent governance model that inspires confidence among its citizens and neighboring states alike. An investment in democratic integrity would also improve Bangladesh’s international standing, allowing it to negotiate with India and other powers from a position of confidence and sovereignty. Bangladesh’s journey toward strengthening democratic institutions can be a stepping stone to fostering a stable, just, and prosperous society that resonates as a model within the South Asian region.

Addressing Religious Prejudices: A Path to Social Unity

Bangladesh’s social landscape is deeply influenced by religious dynamics, which, if left unaddressed, could impede its progress toward a unified national identity. To foster an inclusive society, Bangladesh must champion the rights of allcitizens, ensuring that every community feels recognized and respected. Addressing any grievances, particularly those of minority groups, is essential not only for social cohesion but also for strengthening Bangladesh’s reputation as a tolerant and pluralistic nation.

The need for balanced social policies is especially critical in light of global perceptions regarding the treatment of religious minorities in South Asia. By setting an example of coexistence and respect, Bangladesh can contrast itself with countries where religious prejudices create social division, thereby enhancing its moral standing in the region. Advocating for inclusive policies and prioritizing social unity over divisive rhetoric would improve Bangladesh’s internal harmony and enhance its position as a respected mediator in regional affairs.

Embracing Economic Reform: Reducing Reliance on India

Economic reform is a crucial area where Bangladesh can work toward a more balanced relationship with India and reduce its economic dependence. Despite facing recurring natural challenges, Bangladesh has demonstrated remarkable resilience, maintaining a steady growth rate of 5% or higher, thanks in large part to its thriving textile and garment industry. This sector not only sustains millions of jobs but also positions Bangladesh as one of the world’s leading garment exporters, creating a foundation for economic independence.

To further bolster its economy, Bangladesh could diversify its trade relationships by exploring partnerships with countries beyond South Asia, such as members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the European Union, and the Middle East. Collaborating with regional economic blocks and forging bilateral trade agreements with countries outside India’s sphere of influence would allow Bangladesh to expand its export markets and reduce its reliance on India. This diversified approach would also provide Bangladesh with greater leverage in its economic dealings with India, allowing it to negotiate from a position of strength rather than dependency.

To achieve sustainable economic reform, Bangladesh must also prioritize infrastructure development, innovation, and technology. By investing in these areas, the country can broaden its industrial base beyond textiles, opening up opportunities in sectors such as information technology, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. A diversified economy not only boosts Bangladesh’s resilience against global market fluctuations but also attracts a wider range of foreign investors, who would view Bangladesh as a versatile and competitive market with strong growth potential. Enhanced infrastructure, efficient port facilities, and digital innovation would empower Bangladesh to participate more actively in the global supply chain, further bolstering its economic autonomy.

Fostering Regional Cooperation

To solidify its position as an independent regional power, Bangladesh could also pursue strategic partnerships with other South Asian countries. By fostering close ties with nations like Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka, Bangladesh can build a coalition within the region, creating a counterbalance to India’s dominance. Initiatives focused on trade cooperation, environmental sustainability, and cross-border infrastructure could yield significant benefits for Bangladesh and its regional partners, allowing them to achieve shared goals and collectively reduce their economic reliance on India.

Bangladesh’s growing ties with China, particularly through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), present another avenue for economic diversification. Chinese investments in infrastructure, technology, and energy have already contributed significantly to Bangladesh’s development, creating opportunities for enhanced connectivity and industrial expansion. By carefully balancing its relationships with both China and India, Bangladesh can avoid overdependence on either and maintain a degree of autonomy that enhances its standing in the international community.

A Future Defined by Independence and Self-Reliance

As Bangladesh steps into a future where it strives for more independence, its approach to governance, economy, and foreign policy will play a critical role in shaping its trajectory. The country’s unique geographic position, pluralistic society, and burgeoning economy provide a solid foundation upon which Bangladesh can build a future of self-reliance, resilience, and respect on the world stage. By fostering an independent foreign policy, strengthening democratic institutions, and embracing economic reforms, Bangladesh has the potential to carve out a distinct identity within South Asia—one that is not overshadowed by India’s influence but instead marked by mutual respect and cooperative diplomacy.

With a proactive approach to its own development and a commitment to social unity, Bangladesh can redefine its role in the region. By asserting itself as a sovereign power that values pluralism, economic diversification, and balanced diplomacy, Bangladesh can transform itself from a nation often seen through the lens of India’s influence to a respected and autonomous player that contributes meaningfully to regional peace and stability. This path, though challenging, offers Bangladesh the best opportunity to achieve a future of trueindependence and self-determined growth.

A Future of Mutual Respect, Not Dependency

The future of India-Bangladesh relations hinges on the ability of both nations to transcend the imbalances and historical grievances that have long shaped their interactions. For decades, the relationship has been marred by a perception that India’s interests supersede those of its smaller neighbor. To forge a sustainable and balanced relationship, Bangladesh must pursue economic independence and regional influence, while India must adopt a more respectful, partnership-based approach that values Bangladesh’s sovereignty and aspirations.

The Need for Economic Independence

To reduce dependency on India, Bangladesh can leverage its impressive economic growth, particularly in sectors like textiles, pharmaceuticals, and information technology, to expand trade partnerships beyond South Asia. By strengthening economic ties with ASEAN, the Middle East, and European nations, Bangladesh can create a diversified trade portfolio that reduces its reliance on Indian markets and mitigates the trade imbalance that has long strained relations.

Additionally, investing in infrastructure development, such as improved ports and energy projects, will enable Bangladesh to position itself as a regional logistics and trade hub. This would not only boost its economy but also increase its bargaining power in bilateral trade negotiations with India. A self-sufficient Bangladesh that is not reliant on India’s economic support or markets is better positioned to negotiate from a place of confidence, ensuring that future trade deals are more balanced and mutually beneficial.

Building a Strong, Assertive Foreign Policy

Bangladesh’s geographic location—nestled between India, China, and Myanmar—gives it a unique advantage as a potential mediator in South Asia. By adopting a foreign policy that prioritizes neutrality and independence, Bangladesh can elevate its role in regional diplomacy. Building strategic partnerships with other South Asian countries like Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka could create a coalition of smaller states that work collectively to balance India’s regional influence. Bangladesh could also engage China, particularly through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), to attract investments and infrastructure development, thereby fostering a diversified economic environment.

As an emerging regional power, Bangladesh’s diplomatic approach should emphasize peaceful coexistence and mutual respect. By taking a firm stance on sovereignty and regional stability, Bangladesh can signal to India that it seeks not to oppose but to coexist as a peer, encouraging India to see Bangladesh not as a dependent state but as a valuable partner in fostering regional peace.

India’s Role: From Dominance to Partnership

For its part, India stands to benefit from a prosperous and stable Bangladesh. However, this requires India to reevaluate its policies toward its eastern neighbor, moving away from a paternalistic approach and toward one of genuine partnership. India’s interventions in Bangladesh’s internal politics and its past economic protectionism have led to deep-rooted resentment within Bangladesh. Recognizing this, India could adopt a non-interference policy, respecting Bangladesh’s political autonomy and engaging with all stakeholders rather than favoring specific factions.

India’s economic strategy should also be revised to ensure that trade agreements are fair and facilitate mutual growth. By reducing tariffs on Bangladeshi goods and removing bureaucratic hurdles for Bangladeshi exporters, India can address some of the longstanding economic grievances that fuel anti-Indian sentiment. In addition, collaborative projects on water-sharing and environmental preservation could symbolize a commitment to equitable resource management, further softening the image of India as a domineering neighbor.

Strengthening Social and Cultural Ties

While political relations may ebb and flow, the social and cultural bond between India and Bangladesh remains a strong foundation for improving ties. The people of Bangladesh have a deep connection with Indian culture, seen in their appreciation for Bollywood, Indian fashion, and shared linguistic heritage. India could use its cultural influence as a tool for goodwill, promoting people-to-people exchanges, educational programs, and cultural collaborations that deepen mutual respect.

In turn, Bangladesh could leverage its cultural identity and historical narratives to foster national pride and resilience. By celebrating its heritage and shared history with India, Bangladesh can maintain cultural ties without feeling subsumed by India’s soft power. This balance would enable both nations to engage culturally in a way that fosters kinship while respecting distinct identities.

Creating a Relationship Based on Respect, Not Dependency

For Bangladesh, the path forward lies in fortifying its economic independence, political stability, and regional influence, while simultaneously working to redefine its relationship with India. This shift would not create a romanticized partnership, but rather a mature alliance where both countries acknowledge each other’s sovereignty, strengths, and aspirations. A strong, self-assured Bangladesh, coupled with an India willing to approach its neighbors with respect and sensitivity, could create a new model of South Asian cooperation where both nations benefit.

The journey toward mutual respect and partnership will require overcoming the shadows of history and the deeply ingrained narratives of dominance and dependency. But with a commitment to leveling the playing field, Bangladesh and India can create a relationship that is characterized by mutual growth, shared interests, and regional stability. This future will not be defined by one nation overshadowing the other, but by two neighbors coexisting as equal partners, each contributing to a prosperous and peaceful South Asia.

Conclusion

The future of India-Bangladesh relations rests on a delicate yet achievable shift from dependency and dominance to mutual respect and partnership. For Bangladesh, the path forward involves embracing economic self-sufficiency, strengthening democratic institutions, and adopting a balanced foreign policy that maximizes its strategic position in South Asia. As Bangladesh grows in confidence and capability, it is poised to redefine its relationship with India on more equitable terms, leveraging its independence as a foundation for constructive engagement.

For India, this shift demands a rethinking of its approach toward its eastern neighbor, focusing on fair economic practices, non-interference in domestic politics, and a genuine commitment to shared prosperity. By respecting Bangladesh’s sovereignty and addressing historical grievances, India can build lasting goodwill and benefit from a stable, prosperous partner in the region.

Together, India and Bangladesh have the potential to build a future that transcends the complex legacies of the past. A relationship based on equality and cooperation will not only benefit the people of both nations but will also contribute to a more peaceful and stable South Asia. With mutual respect as the cornerstone, both nations can look forward to a partnership that is resilient,forward-looking, and rooted in shared aspirations for growth and harmony.