India to Take ‘Appropriate Steps’ Amid Bangladesh-Pakistan Military Ties
New Delhi: India has expressed concern over increasing military ties between Bangladesh and Pakistan, highlighting its commitment to national security. This comes amid reports of a high-ranking delegation from Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) visiting Dhaka. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has assured that India is closely monitoring the situation and will take necessary measures to safeguard its interests.
Growing Military Engagements
A Pakistani military delegation, led by Maj Gen Shahid Amir Afsar, Director General of Analysis for ISI, is currently visiting Dhaka. This visit follows a recent trip by a Bangladeshi military team to Pakistan, where they held meetings with top officials from Pakistan’s Army, Navy, and Air Force. These developments come at a time of increasing diplomatic strain between India and Bangladesh, especially after the caretaker government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus took charge in August 2024.
Speaking at a media briefing on Friday, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “We keep an eye on all activities around the country and in the region, as well as those affecting national security. The government will take appropriate steps as required.”
India’s Focus on Bilateral Relations
Despite concerns over Bangladesh’s military engagements with Pakistan, India has reiterated its commitment to maintaining strong ties with its neighbor. Jaiswal reaffirmed India’s stance, stating, “We support a democratic, progressive, and inclusive Bangladesh. Our aim is to strengthen our relationship for the prosperity of people in both nations.”
Border Security Measures
India is also addressing security concerns along its border with Bangladesh. The MEA spokesperson commented on Bangladesh’s objections to India’s border fencing initiatives, stating that these measures are in line with existing bilateral agreements and are necessary to curb illegal activities such as human trafficking and cattle smuggling. Jaiswal urged Bangladesh to adopt a “positive and constructive approach” to ensure a secure and crime-free border.
Strained India-Bangladesh Relations
India’s relations with Bangladesh have faced challenges since the political changes in Dhaka last year, which led to the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The interim government has struggled to control attacks on minorities, including Hindus, further straining ties with India.
The strengthening of military relations between Dhaka and Islamabad adds complexity to South Asia’s security landscape. Analysts warn that these developments require India to remain vigilant while engaging in careful diplomatic negotiations to protect its strategic interests.
India’s stance on this issue reflects a balanced approach—ensuring national security while maintaining regional cooperation. As Bangladesh’s ties with Pakistan deepen, India’s diplomatic strategies will play a crucial role in preserving stability in South Asia.
The evolving situation calls for proactive diplomacy and strategic foresight to address shifting regional dynamics. The way India navigates this challenge will significantly influence the future of peace and security in the region.
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