Dhaka, Bangladesh – Fifty years ago, The country was formed after a fierce struggle for independence from Pakistan. While Pakistan was known for its military rule and religious extremism, It charted a different course, focusing on its Bengali identity and secular values. However, today, some fear that Bangladesh is heading down the same troubling path as Pakistan, marked by religious extremism, weak leadership, and rising anti-India sentiments.
Table of Contents
Bangladesh’s Shift in Attitude Towards India
Bangladesh’s national anthem, “Amar Shonar Bangla,” written by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, has long been a symbol of pride. But recently, some in country have begun claiming that this anthem was imposed on them by India, reflecting growing anti-India sentiments. Bangladesh, once a close ally of India, is now showing signs of a shift in its foreign policy, resembling Pakistan’s approach, which includes harboring grievances against India.
In a disturbing move, Bangladesh has released individuals from jail whose primary motive appears to be creating instability in India. For example, Jashimuddin Rahmani, a known extremist linked to terrorist activities, openly expressed support for separatist movements in Kashmir and Khalistan upon his release. This raises concerns that Bangladesh could, like Pakistan, seek to weaken India through indirect means, such as supporting terrorism.
Rise of Extremism and the Role of Religion
Another worrying development is the rise of extremist ideologies in the country. Figures like Abdul Ahil Aman Azmi have called for the constitution to be changed to align with Islamic law, similar to Pakistan’s “Objectives Resolution” passed in 1949. This shift toward religious extremism undermines Its secular foundations, which were established during its independence movement.
The release of dangerous figures like Jashimuddin Rahmani, leader of the Ansarullah Bangla Team with ties to terrorist organizations like Al-Qaeda, is a significant threat. His group has been responsible for the murders of bloggers, activists, and writers, and Rahmani has a clear anti-India stance. The government’s decision to release such individuals signals a dangerous turn toward extremism.
Protests and Political Instability
Student protests in Bangladesh, initially aimed at bringing about positive change, have instead led to chaos. Statues of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the country’s founding father, have been vandalized, and protestors have looted government officials’ homes. This instability resembles the conditions that paved the way for military rule in Pakistan. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, now the interim leader, has promised stability, but his willingness to engage with Pakistan raises doubts about the direction Bangladesh is heading.
Economic Concerns and Geopolitical Risks for India
Bangladesh, once an economic success story in South Asia, is now showing signs of instability. Anti-India policies, combined with growing extremism, could harm not only country itself but also its relations with neighboring India. The strategic Siliguri Corridor, also known as the “Chicken’s Neck,” is a narrow stretch of land connecting India’s northeastern states with the rest of the country. If Bangladesh turns against India, it could pose a serious threat to India’s national security, especially if China is involved.
A Warning for India
Bangladesh’s current trajectory mirrors Pakistan’s path of religious extremism, military interference, and hostility towards India. While Its history and identity have been distinct from Pakistan, the growing anti-India sentiments and rising extremism could harm both nations. India must be vigilant, especially concerning the threat of terrorism and instability in the region. If It continues down this path, it risks becoming a second Pakistan, with far-reaching consequences for South Asia.
The coming years will be crucial for both Bangladesh and India. Whether they will reaffirm its commitment to peace and secularism or continue down a path of extremism remains to be seen.
