News Desk: India’s relations with its neighboring countries are now largely complex, cold, and driven by self-interest—hardly natural or warm as before. The reality is that as India’s regional influence has expanded, trust deficits and underlying resentment have grown among many of its neighbors.India’s Current Relations with Neighboring Countries (Brief Analysis)
Pakistan
The relationship is virtually frozen. Diplomatic engagement is minimal, while border tensions and the Kashmir issue have permanently poisoned ties.
Nepal
Despite historical and cultural connections, in recent years allegations of political interference, border disputes, and constitutional issues have increased distance between India and both the Nepali public and political establishment.
Sri Lanka
India did provide assistance during Sri Lanka’s economic crisis, but many perceive India’s influence there as “excessive pressure.” Efforts to maintain a balance between China and India are clearly evident.
Maldives
The slogan “India Out” itself reflects the situation. Under the new political reality, the Maldives is moving away from India and gravitating toward China.
Bhutan
The only country where relations remain relatively stable; however, this stability is largely due to Bhutan’s heavy dependence on India—making it difficult to describe the relationship as fully equal.
Bangladesh: The Most Sensitive Chapter
At one time, India–Bangladesh relations were described as a “model relationship.” In practice, however, this relationship was more government-to-government than state-to-state.
By placing excessive reliance on the fascist Sheikh Hasina government and its close circle, India:
Ignored the sentiments of the Bangladeshi people Remained silent on issues of democracy, voting rights, and human rights. Took one-sided positions on border killings, water sharing, and trade imbalances.
What Was the Outcome?
Distrust and resentment toward India grew among ordinary people in Bangladesh. The risk emerged that any change in government could destabilize the relationship.
Did India Benefit from This?
In the short term:
Some strategic advantages
Transit facilities and security cooperation
A compliant government
In the long term:
Public opinion in Bangladesh has turned against India
Diplomatic credibility has been damaged
India’s position in trade and regional leadership has weakened
New opportunities have opened up for China
In other words, diplomatically and commercially, India has ultimately harmed itself.
India’s neighbors are not maintaining good relations by tolerating aggression or dominance; rather, they are gradually distancing themselves and turning toward alternative powers.
In Bangladesh’s case as well, by building relations around an authoritarian government instead of the people, India has made a strategic miscalculation.
Regional leadership does not endure through imposition—
it endures only when built on respect, equality, and the trust of the people.
This is a truth India has yet to fully accept…. The clearest verse in the Qur’an regarding relations and rights of neighbors is found in Surah An-Nisa (4:36). This verse clearly states that in Islam, the rights of neighbors are extremely important. Whether the neighbor is near or far, Muslim or non-Muslim, treating everyone with kindness is an essential part of faith.
Shabera Shormin Haque- (Environmentalist, Political Analyst, Social and Cultural Activist, Businessperson)
Academic background: Environmental Science, Urban Planning, Development Studies, MBA, Master’s in International Relations; PhD Fellowship in Global Economic Development.
