I am neither a politician nor an expert on foreign policies; I am a mere politically conscious citizen pondering upon the strained relationship between our country and India.
Bangladesh and India have had a longstanding friendship. Bangladeshis rightfully hold much gratitude to India for their involvement in the 1971 war. Although, it is important to emphasize that due to our sheer will, we would have eventually achieved independence regardless of their backing. Still, thanks to their support, an even longer and deadlier war was avoided.
It is also true that India is a neighbouring country, and we need India just as much as they need us. It would be incredibly unwise to overlook our geographical relationship and the repercussions thereof.
We share many cultural commonalities -- we like their Bollywood films, fashion, and cuisine, tourist attractions. Indian products have flooded our market, and we have been loyal customers in every category, including healthcare, fashion, and fast-moving consumer goods. We also brought in talent from India to learn the ways of the private sector. We accepted the trade deficit.
They are 24 years older than us and have a vast territory, cultural diversity, and population. It's okay if they want to adopt the big brother mindset. But whatI find unacceptable is any bullying attitude, as well as the mixture of disdain that comes with it.
When the people refer to a "stern" or tense relationship between the two countries, they are usually pointing to a few key challenges.
Domineering attitude
We are living in the social media era. Information and knowledge are at our fingertips. We can compare legacy to understand the rationale and purpose for India's engagement in the 1971 war. Bangladeshi people become sensitive when the Indian government condemns minority' killings, while having a similar example of Muslim minorities being wrongly treated in their own land. What is not practiced in their home region is preached here.
Border killing
One of the biggest irritants is the killing of Bangladeshi nationals by India’s Border Security Force (BSF), often over alleged smuggling or illegal crossings. There may be cases of illegal migration.
However, it can be resolved with a more humane approach. Implementing more non-lethal enforcement methods (like rubber bullets, surveillance tech), increase joint patrols, and improve coordination with Bangladeshi border forces. Such a killing approach shows disregard for the people of Bangladesh and it does not sit well in the eyes of its people or in terms of humanitarianism.
We may be a small country, but we are also a market of 180 million people eagerly awaiting India's symbiotic approach
Teesta water sharing
India is our neighbouring country. While it exhibits a big brother approach to other domestic matters in Bangladesh, it ignores our concerns about sharing Teesta water. This situational mindset does not fit well with the people of Bangladesh.
Political narratives
Incidentally, India has been successful in convincing the people of Bangladesh that it has ties to only one political party, the Awami League, for its own political agenda, and this belief was reinforced recently when the ousted ex-PM Sheikh Hasina sought refuge in India, and India is now calling for an inclusive election. Such concern did not exist during the last 15 years while the Awami League was in power. The Indian media is also not helping to solve the problem. Spreading misleading news and exaggerating tragedies against minorities incites contempt among Bangladeshis.
Finally, the recent meeting in Thailand amongst the two leaders was well received in Bangladesh but eventually was spoiled with the narratives of the Indian media. Dr Mohammad Yunus is widely respected by the people of Bangladesh, and there was no alternative to Dr Yunus following the ouster of ex-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina via a mass protest movement led primarily by students in the country.
Bangladesh is growing with its people. India has to respect Bangladesh’s sovereignty and regional choices. Bangladesh youth values its independence in foreign policy. India meddling in Bangladesh foreign policies along with domestic issues may not be well received by today’s generation
Any worries expressed by India might be voiced with sensitive words rather than disparaging speech. It should support Bangladesh's development plan to ensure regional stability and India's strategic interests. We may be a small country, but we are also a market of 180 million people eagerly awaiting India's symbiotic approach.
Mahzabeen Faruque works for a private company.
