Vikrant Shekhawat : Dec 14, 2024, 01:00 AM
India-Bangladesh Relation: In recent months, Bangladesh, which once held a leading position in the global textile industry, is now going through a crisis. This crisis is not only affecting its economic condition but is also changing its social and political structure.Bangladesh's textile industry was once at its peakThere was a time when clothes with the tag 'Made in Bangladesh' dominated the markets of America, Canada, and Europe. The unique skills and high quality products of Bangladeshi weavers gave it international recognition. But now this industry is being affected due to instability and political crises.Political instability and rise of religious extremismAfter Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajed left power on 5 August 2024, the situation in Bangladesh started changing rapidly. Radical forces took control of the government through student movements. These elements not only affected the political system but also increased the threat to minority communities, especially Hindus.Sourness in India-Bangladesh relationsBangladesh's geographical location makes it dependent on India. It is imperative for this country surrounded by India on three sides to maintain good relations with India. But under the influence of fundamentalist forces, a hostile attitude is being adopted towards India.Impact on import-export: Import of products like sugar, cotton, and pet animals from India has been stopped.Use of sea route: Efforts are being made to establish sea trade relations with Pakistan, but its route is long and expensive.Attack on the legacy of Sheikh Mujibur RahmanThe legacy of Bangladesh's father of the nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, who fought against the brutal rule of Pakistan, is being systematically erased. His photo has been removed from the new notes and national slogans like 'Joy Bangla' have been banned.Growing closeness with PakistanBangladesh is now strengthening its relations with Pakistan.Impact of Pakistani trade: Cargo ships have started coming and going from Karachi to Chittagong.Possibility of nuclear cooperation: The possibility of a nuclear deal with Pakistan is being considered, which is a matter of serious concern for India.Economic crisis and food security threatBangladesh is facing a huge shortage of food items. Essential commodities like onion, potatoes, and rice used to be supplied from India, but the current government has stopped these imports. If this situation continues, there may be a crisis of starvation in the country.Bangladesh's path is difficult without IndiaDistance with India can prove to be detrimental for Bangladesh.Geographical dependence: Bangladesh's economy and trade is based on cooperation with India.Threat of Western sanctions: If Bangladesh enters into a nuclear deal with Pakistan, it will have to face international sanctions.Question of Bangladesh's futureThe current scenario of Bangladesh raises serious questions about its existence. Radical thinking, bitter relations with India, and dependence on Pakistan can hamper its development. It is necessary for Bangladesh to rethink its policies and build a progressive and inclusive future by drawing inspiration from the legacy of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.ConclusionBangladesh's drift away from India and tilting towards Pakistan could be detrimental not only for itself but for the entire region. It is time for Bangladesh to make the right decision and strengthen its socio-economic structure.