The Bangladesh-India relationship, marked by unresolved disputes, once again appears to be entering a more difficult phase. After a decline in the bilateral relations after the fall of the Awami League regime, perceived to have survived on India’s unequivocal political backing, many hoped that Dhaka and New Delhi would rebuild bilateral ties on the basis of mutual respect, sovereign equality and non-interference. Leaders from both countries spoke of resetting relations. Yet, recent developments in the frontiers suggest that old habits continue to prevail over diplomatic assurances. Tension has escalated in recent months. Political rhetoric in India, especially from BJP leaders in West Bengal, has increasingly relied on anti-Bangladesh and anti-Muslim narratives that threaten to poison public sentiment and complicate the already strained ties. Such rhetoric, coupled with continued border violence, unresolved disputes over cross-border rivers and repeated allegations of unilateral action by Indian authorities, creates the impression that Delhi remains unwilling to treat Bangladesh as an equal neighbour deserving of dignity and fairness. The conduct of India’s Border Security Force has for long been a major source of bitterness in Bangladesh. In May, at least three Bangladeshis were reportedly killed by Indian guards.
Rights groups document that more than 1,250 Bangladeshis have been killed by Indian guards since 2000, which stands in sharp contrast to the friendly rhetoric often exchanged at official meetings. The continuation of India’s so-called push-in policy is also worrying. On May 20, the Indian guards reportedly pushed nine people into Bangladesh through a border point in Sylhet. Reports suggest that in two years, India has also pushed hundreds of people, including Indians and Rohingyas registered with the UNHCR in India, into Bangladesh. Another crisis emerged on May 22, when the Indian border force reportedly tried to install bamboo poles on the no man’s land along Patgram. The move breached bilateral agreements stipulating that neither side may unilaterally erect structures within 150 metres of the border without consultation. India certainly has the sovereign right to secure its borders, prevent illegal crossing and deport undocumented migrants through lawful procedures. Bangladesh, too, has repeatedly assured cooperation in addressing such issues through due process and coordinated mechanism. However, these objectives cannot justify bypassing international law, established border protocols or bilateral agreements. Any deportation or border management initiative should be conducted transparently, humanely and in consultation with Dhaka.
For the sake of better bilateral relations, both sides, especially the Indian authorities, should take meaningful steps to abide by international legal standards, border protocols and all bilateral commitments. Respect for sovereign equality, restraints by border forces and sincere engagement on contentious issues such as riverwater sharing and border killings are indispensable to restoring trust.
