India is closely monitoring the situation in Bangladesh following reports of a visit by high-ranking officials from Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), including Director General of Analysis Maj Gen Shahid Amir Afsar. This visit has raised concerns in New Delhi, particularly in light of a recent uptick in interactions between military officials from Bangladesh and Pakistan.
On Friday, the Indian government reaffirmed its commitment to national security, stating that it is vigilant about developments in the region that could impact its interests. External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that India will take “appropriate” measures if necessary. His comments came in response to inquiries regarding the implications of the Pakistani military delegation’s visit to Dhaka, which followed a trip by Bangladeshi military officials to Pakistan where they met with the country’s three service chiefs.
“We keep an eye on all activities around the country and in the region, as well as all activities affecting national security, and the government will take appropriate steps,” Jaiswal stated during his weekly media briefing. He reiterated India’s approach towards Bangladesh, highlighting the importance of maintaining friendly relations. “We support a democratic, progressive, and inclusive Bangladesh. We want to strengthen our ties so that the people of India and Bangladesh can prosper,” he added.
The backdrop to these developments includes Bangladesh’s recent objections to India’s construction of a fence along their shared border. Jaiswal clarified that the fencing is intended to combat criminal activities, including human and cattle trafficking, and is in line with existing bilateral agreements between the two nations.
Relations between India and Bangladesh have experienced significant strain since the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August of the previous year amid widespread anti-government protests. The situation deteriorated further when the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus struggled to address rising violence against minority communities, particularly Hindus, in Bangladesh.
The increasing military cooperation between Bangladesh and Pakistan has raised alarms in India, which has historically viewed such ties with suspicion. The recent visits and meetings between military officials from both countries suggest a potential shift in regional dynamics that could have implications for India’s security strategy.
As India continues to navigate its foreign relations in South Asia, the government remains focused on fostering stability and cooperation with its neighbors while safeguarding its national interests. The situation in Bangladesh, particularly in light of its military engagements with Pakistan, will likely remain a key area of concern for Indian policymakers in the coming months.
