In a candid interview with Prothom Alo, Bangladesh Army Chief Gen Waker-Uz-Zaman highlighted India’s role as an “important neighbour” and underlined the need for a relationship grounded in fairness and mutual respect. This marks his first public remarks since former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina stepped down and fled to India in August 2024.
Zaman acknowledged Bangladesh’s dependence on India in various sectors and assured that Dhaka would not pursue any action contrary to New Delhi’s strategic interests. “India is an important neighbour. We are dependent on India in many ways, and India benefits from us too. A large number of their people work in Bangladesh, both formally and informally. Many Bangladeshi citizens travel to India for medical treatment,” he said in a translated version of the interview.
The comments come at a time of strained ties between the two nations. Since the caretaker administration, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, assumed power, relations have reportedly deteriorated. India has expressed concerns over increasing attacks on Bangladesh’s Hindu minority and the recent arrest of Bangladeshi monk Chinmoy Krishna Das on sedition charges. These issues have added to the friction in bilateral ties.
Zaman emphasized the importance of stability in Bangladesh for India’s interests and described the relationship as a “give-and-take” dynamic. He stressed that fairness should underpin this bilateral partnership to ensure mutual benefits.
India’s engagement in Bangladesh includes its significant workforce and investments in the country, alongside providing medical services to Bangladeshi citizens. Meanwhile, Bangladesh plays a pivotal role in India’s regional strategy, with cooperation spanning trade, connectivity, and security.
However, recent political developments in Bangladesh have introduced complexities. The departure of Sheikh Hasina, who fostered close ties with India, has created a vacuum, leading to apprehensions in New Delhi. The rise in communal tensions and politically motivated arrests has further strained the equation.
As the region watches closely, Zaman’s remarks indicate a willingness to maintain and strengthen the relationship despite existing challenges. Both nations now face the task of rebuilding trust and addressing mutual concerns to foster a stable partnership.
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