The recent political turmoil in Bangladesh has seen Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina flee to India amidst widespread protests calling for her removal and the return of democracy. Known for her close ties with India, Hasina’s departure has left New Delhi in shock, as her regime’s collapse is viewed as a disaster in the corridors of power.
Hasina’s relationship with India dates back to the 1970s when she sought refuge in the country. Over the years, she allowed India significant influence in Bangladesh, including economic and security cooperation. In return, India turned a blind eye to her increasingly oppressive regime and was accused of interfering in Bangladesh’s affairs to keep her in power.
However, the collapse of Hasina’s regime has prompted calls for India to reset its relationship with Bangladesh. An interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus is now in place, promising reforms and accountability for past actions. The ongoing presence of Hasina in India has further strained relations, with calls for her extradition to face charges in Bangladesh.
Political analysts warn that India’s reliance on Hasina has led to a precarious situation, with an intelligence failure leaving the country unprepared for the regime’s collapse. As Bangladesh seeks to reclaim democracy, India’s response has focused on restoring stability rather than supporting democratic reform.
The region faces uncertainty as the fallout from Hasina’s departure continues, highlighting the need for a reevaluation of India’s approach to Bangladesh and the importance of building state-to-state relationships rather than relying solely on individual leaders or parties.
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