The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs presented its ninth report in the Lok Sabha on the future of India-Bangladesh relations. A total of 33 important observations and recommendations have been made in this report of the committee headed by Shashi Tharoor, which includes issues like democracy, security, minority protection, border management, trade, connectivity and cultural relations in detail.
Underlining the historical, cultural and strategic relations between India and Bangladesh, the committee said that the spirit of 1971, agreements like land boundary agreement and maritime boundary settlement are the strong foundation of the relations. The report recommends India to maintain a constructive, pragmatic and pro-democracy approach while acknowledging Bangladesh’s internal political challenges.
political instability in bangladesh
The committee expressed concern over political instability, uncertainty regarding elections and political violence in Bangladesh after August 2024. Also, while appreciating India’s calm diplomacy and non-intervention policy, the government has been asked to continuously encourage free, fair and credible elections. The report described the incidents of attacks, damage to religious places and violence on minority communities in Bangladesh as serious. The committee has recommended the Ministry of External Affairs to keep it a diplomatic priority and put pressure on the Bangladesh government for quick and effective action.
Stay of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina
The committee linked former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s stay in India to India’s humanitarian and civilizational traditions. The report made it clear that no political activity has been allowed from Indian soil and asked to keep the committee informed on developments related to extradition. Describing anti-India propaganda on Bangladeshi media and digital platforms as a challenge, the committee has recommended the creation of a Strategic Communication Unit within the Ministry of External Affairs, so that misinformation can be effectively responded to.
China’s growing role in Bangladesh
The Committee on Ports, Airbases and Defense Cooperation has expressed concern over China’s increasing role in Bangladesh. Especially keeping in mind the security interests related to the Siliguri Corridor and the Bay of Bengal, India has been asked to strengthen its position through vigilant surveillance and development cooperation. Emphasizing on the remaining fencing, smart surveillance and technological solutions on the India-Bangladesh border, the committee linked it to national security. Also, it has been recommended to strengthen intelligence partnership to prevent terrorism and infiltration in North-East India. Emphasizing the inclusion of border states like West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram in policy making, the committee has talked about making the Centre-State coordination mechanism more active.
Matter related to CEPA agreement
In view of Bangladesh’s exit from LDC in 2026, it is recommended to quickly finalize the CEPA agreement, accelerate connectivity projects and start timely negotiations on renewal of the 1996 Ganga Water Treaty.
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