The Voice News: In the context of diplomacy, the term “N-Circle” refers to a conceptual framework where countries or political actors are categorized into concentric circles based on their proximity and strategic importance to a specific nation’s interests. These circles help shape a nation’s foreign policy priorities and strategic relationships.
India is increasingly encircling Bangladesh with infrastructure developments, forming what can be described as an “N-Circle.” From the Bay of Bengal in the south to road and rail networks on the other three sides, India is tightening its strategic grip. To the west, the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project is being implemented through Myanmar’s Arakan State.
During Sheikh Hasina’s tenure, Bangladesh undertook the Padma Bridge project, facilitating east-west transit. Additionally, Japan-funded infrastructure projects, such as the four-lane highway connecting Rangpur to the Matarbari deep-sea port, are nearing completion. However, after Hasina’s resignation, Japan has pledged $1 billion to keep these projects active.
Could Infrastructure Be Used for Military Aggression?
Russian President Vladimir Putin once accused NATO of forming an “N-Circle” around Russia, leading to the Ukraine war. Similarly, concerns arise over India’s infrastructure developments around Bangladesh. Indian media has repeatedly hinted at isolating Bangladesh’s “Chicken’s Neck” (Siliguri Corridor), raising fears of potential military aggression.
India’s Need for Alternatives
A report by The Print argues that India must look beyond Bangladesh for connectivity with its northeastern states. The Kolkata-Sittwe-Aizawl corridor is crucial, and the Kaladan Project via Myanmar is now more urgent, especially given Bangladesh’s political instability.
The Kaladan Project’s Growing Importance
India’s role in South Asia extends beyond dominance to regional integration. Cross-border infrastructure—roads, railways, and waterways—is expanding under India’s “Act East” policy. However, Bangladesh’s recent political turmoil has disrupted joint projects, forcing India to reconsider alternatives like the Kaladan route.
Tensions with Bangladesh’s Interim Government
During a visit to China, Bangladesh’s interim chief advisor, Dr. Muhammad Yunus, made controversial remarks, stating that India’s seven northeastern states are landlocked and dependent on Bangladesh for sea access. This provoked India, with PM Modi urging restraint. Yunus later reiterated the need for a unified economic plan involving Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and India’s northeast—seen as provocative.
Reassessing Rail Connectivity
India has been enhancing cross-border rail links with Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. However, after Bangladesh’s political unrest, passenger train services were suspended, and trade corridors were disrupted. The Agartala-Kolkata corridor via Bangladesh now seems uncertain, pushing India to explore alternatives through Myanmar.
The Kolkata-Sittwe-Aizawl Corridor
The Kaladan Project, once fully operational, will provide a shorter transit route from Kolkata to Mizoram, Tripura, and Manipur via Myanmar’s Sittwe Port. However, for bulk cargo, a rail link between Aizawl and Sittwe is essential—similar to the proposed Chabahar-Zahedan rail link in Iran.
Geopolitical Shifts: India Bypassing Bangladesh?
Since Hasina’s fall, diplomatic tensions have risen, with India reducing reliance on Bangladesh for trade. Experts argue that as Bangladesh leans toward China, India must accelerate alternative routes. The geopolitical and economic implications of this shift will significantly impact South Asia’s trade and security dynamics.
While infrastructure projects promise regional integration, the underlying tensions highlight a strategic recalibration. India’s “N-Circle” around Bangladesh may strengthen its influence, but it also risks escalating mistrust in an already volatile neighborhood. The coming years will test whether economic cooperation can outweigh geopolitical rivalry.