India’s hostile neighbourhood & how it has responded to Bangladesh-Pakistan axis backed by China

#ThePrintWorldView
As India marks 75 years as a Republic, this episode of The Print World View with Swasti focuses on India’s strategic position in its complex and volatile neighborhood, particularly Bangladesh. Recent developments suggest closer ties between Dhaka and Islamabad, backed by China’s influence. Could these be the contours of a third front? Before reacting, how should India assess this situation?

The 1971 war holds a special place in India’s strategic narrative. It was not only a significant military and diplomatic triumph, but also reaffirmed India’s dominance in the subcontinent, following the 1962 setback against China. However, with Sheikh Hasina’s ouster, India must reflect on whether it has erred by relying too heavily on pro-India factions, instead of engaging with a broader range of stakeholders. Is India’s preference for the status quo impeding its ability to adapt to the shifting global order?

In a rapidly evolving world, India must rethink its priorities and recalibrate its strategic lens. To explore the dynamics of a potential third front, involving Bangladesh, Pakistan and China, Swasti Rao speaks to Mahfuz Anam, editor of The Daily Star from Dhaka, and Dr. Qamar Cheema, a Pakistani defence expert from Islamabad.

The discussion highlights key themes, particularly the importance of granting Bangladesh greater agency in bilateral relations—a work in progress for India. Both experts underscored the complexity of South Asia, urging India to move beyond sentimental and self-referential views.

1:12 Ikram Sehgal is a Pakistani defence analyst and security expert. He is a retired Pakistan Army officer
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