Former Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla has advised the government of India to extend a renewed “hand of friendship” to Bangladesh following the country’s recent parliamentary elections and the formation of a new government.
Opportunity to Reset Bilateral Relations
In an opinion article titled “Fer Bondhutter Haat Barano Jay” (Extending the Hand of Friendship Again), published on Tuesday in the influential Bengali newspaper Anandabazar Patrika, Shringla said India should respond positively if Bangladesh’s new administration addresses New Delhi’s security concerns.
“If Bangladesh’s new government sincerely works to address India’s security concerns, it would be natural for India to extend cooperation and support,” he wrote.
Tensions After 2024 Political Upheaval
Relations between the two South Asian neighbors have remained strained since the 2024 political upheaval that led to the fall of the government of Sheikh Hasina. However, Shringla believes the 13th parliamentary election held on February 12 could mark “a new chapter” in South Asian politics.
According to him, the emergence of an elected government may help restore institutional stability in Bangladesh and rebuild regional confidence.
Signals from Opposition LeadersShringla also noted that Tarique Rahman, a senior leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), had sent relatively positive signals toward India ahead of the election.
Reflecting on past relations during the BNP-led government between 2001 and 2006, Shringla said historical experiences could influence the present but changing regional realities might lead to different outcomes.
Economic Pressures on Bangladesh
He pointed out that Bangladesh is currently facing economic challenges. According to his assessment, the country’s foreign debt stands at about $100 billion, while foreign exchange reserves have fallen from $46 billion in 2021–22 to around $29 billion in 2025–26.
Given this situation, Shringla argued that regional cooperation with India is not only desirable but necessary for Bangladesh.
Domestic Political Landscape
Commenting on Bangladesh’s internal politics, he said that although the BNP has won the election, its long-term stability will depend on establishing an effective governance framework and political unity.
He also highlighted the growing influence of other political forces. The Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami secured 68 parliamentary seats, while the newly formed party of student leaders involved in the July uprising, the National Citizens Party (NCP), has emerged as a new political force.
Security and Minority Concerns
Advising the Indian government, Shringla said New Delhi should manage relations with Dhaka through a balance of strategic realism and diplomatic restraint.
However, he cautioned that Bangladesh must not be allowed to become a partner in what he described as “hostile plans” by Pakistan against India.
He also emphasized that the safety and confidence of minority communities in Bangladesh would remain an important factor in maintaining stable bilateral relations between the two countries.
