Dhaka: Many describe the relationship between Bangladesh and India as “historic,” “brotherly,” or “cordial.” But is the reality really that simple? On one hand, there is India’s support during Bangladesh’s Liberation War; on the other, there are long-standing pressures and grievances over water sharing, border issues, trade, and security. Caught between these two contrasting realities, the people of Bangladesh today face a deep sense of ambivalence.
A Contradictory Relationship
Bangladesh’s geopolitical position is such that it is almost surrounded by India on all sides. This geographical reality forces Bangladesh to maintain a “tolerant” relationship with India. But the question remains—does this relationship truly rest on mutual respect and equality?
The Teesta water-sharing agreement remains uncertain
Border killings have continued for more than a decade
Trade deficits overwhelmingly favor India
Allegations of interference in Bangladesh’s internal politics repeatedly surface
Neighbor or Strategic Adversary?
In global politics, no country is truly selfless—that is a reality. Yet, as a neighboring country, India’s policy stance often appears exploitative. Its diplomatic approach frequently seems one-sided, where Bangladesh risks becoming “dependent” rather than an equal “partner.”
International Diplomacy vs. National Interest
The language of diplomacy is restrained, but reality is often harsh. In pursuit of its strategic interests, India has repeatedly taken decisions that raise serious questions about the interests of the Bangladeshi people. For example:
Prolonged delays in water-sharing agreements
Biased positions in Bangladesh’s internal political affairs
Penetration into information and security systems under the guise of counterterrorism cooperation
What Should Bangladesh Do Next?
The time has come for renewed reflection. Maintaining good relations with India as a neighbor is necessary, but those relations must be based on equality and self-respect.
Strengthening Bangladesh’s independent diplomatic position
Building regional and global alternative alliances
Formulating foreign policy by prioritizing public opinion
Bangladesh–India relations cannot be defined in a single word. They involve friendship, but also politics of influence. The time has come to reassess the relationship based on realism, not emotion. Fire does provide warmth—but when it goes out of control, it can also bring destruction.
Bangladesh’s most formidable and alarming challenge is India itself. Nearly all of our national crises originate from this country. Perhaps it is the only state in the world that has turned the systematic exploitation, oppression, and subjugation of its neighbors into an integral part of its policy. As unbelievable as it may sound, convicted Sheikh Hasina has taken refuge in India and is allegedly engaged day and night in conspiracies against Bangladesh, while simultaneously running a factory of lies to mislead the country from within. Yet many still believe that India is a friendly neighbor—as if someone were to embrace fire and say, “It gives warmth; why would it burn?”Shabera Shormin Haque
Master’s in Environmental Science, Urban Planning, Development Studies, Business Administration, and International Relations
PhD Fellowship in World Economic Development. Chief Adviser, 36 TV. Chairman, Daily Bangladesh Views.
