Between Comforts and Discomforts: Indo-Bangla Relations in a Changing Reality

Abstract

Its geographical location, vast population, economy, and the size and power of its military have transformed India into an Asian influence with the cherished dream of becoming a “World Power.” Bangladesh, a country that is almost entirely surrounded by India, is generally regarded as its closest neighbor. These two countries rely on each other for their common strategic interests, such as security and development. It is widely perceived that Indo-Bangla relations are currently at their peak, and that these two countries are jointly moving forward for their mutual benefit. By reviewing the secondary literature for the purpose of conducting an institutional analysis, however, this article will critically analyze this relationship in a changing reality, that comprises the rise of Hindutva, China’s growing influence in South Asia, and the Rohingya crisis, which have causing simultaneously disadvantaged positions for both India and Bangladesh, the latter having been dominated by India historically. Thus, each of these dimensions might potentially turn positive aspects of the Indo-Bangla relations into negative ones, and Delhi must address Bangladesh’s concerns meaningfully in order to safeguard its geopolitical interests.