In recent years, there has been a major change in the political and economic scenario of Bangladesh. Bangladesh, known for its close relations with India, is now showing sympathy towards Pakistan. There has been a boom in trade with Pakistan via Dubai, while the stance regarding imports from India is becoming stricter.
Increase in trade from Pakistan to Chittagong Port
Recently, a cargo ship arrived at Chittagong Port in Bangladesh, which had come from Karachi via Dubai. This is the second ship in the last few days that entered Bangladesh waters from Pakistan.
- The ship was carrying 811 containers, which included soda ash, dolomite, marble blocks, sugar, textile raw materials and electronic products.
- The incident occurred soon after the D-8 Islamic Summit, where Bangladesh’s Nobel laureate Mohammad Yunus and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met.
Pressure on trade with India and possibility of change in shipping policy
According to the report of Economic Times, government agencies are pressurizing the businessmen of Bangladesh to do business with Pakistan instead of India.
- The idea of banning the entry of Indian ships at Chittagong and Mongla ports is under consideration.
- This step can become a serious challenge for India from strategic and economic point of view in the Bay of Bengal.
Strategic importance and security concerns of Chittagong Port
Chittagong Port is very important for India’s strategic access to the North-Eastern states of India and the Bay of Bengal.
- The government led by Sheikh Hasina had promoted trade relations with India and also cooperated with India on sensitive matters.
- In 2004, 1,500 containers of Chinese weapons were seized at the same port.
- The government believed that these weapons were sent by the ISI and were to be given to militant organizations like ULFA.
- Pakistan’s agencies have been promoting separatist organizations and terrorism in North-East India, Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir.
Relaxation in checking rules of Pakistani ships
In September 2023, Bangladesh abolished the rule under which physical checking of Pakistani ships was mandatory.
- This change has made the movement of unwanted and sensitive content easier.
- This decision may further increase India’s security concerns.
Islamic extremism and threats to India
The growing influence of Islamic extremists in Bangladesh has created additional concerns for India.
- Growing relations with Pakistan and the strength of Islamic fundamentalists can become a medium to spread unrest in North-East India.
- Supporting extremist groups could be part of Pakistan’s strategy.
Potential challenges for India
- Strengthening Bangladesh-Pakistan relations:
Increasing trade and diplomatic relations between the two countries could be detrimental to India’s strategic interests. - Cessation of Indian trade at Chittagong Port:
This can cause direct harm to India’s economic and strategic interests. - Collaboration of radical forces:
The closeness between Bangladesh and Pakistan could lead to terrorism and separatism in India. - Economic pressure:
Decrease in imports from India in Bangladesh may weaken the trade relations between the two countries.
What could be India’s step?
- Diplomatic Dialogue:
India should try to address the concerns by establishing high level dialogue with Bangladesh. - Preparing Options:
Dependence on other ports can be increased as an alternative to Chittagong Port. - Business Incentives:
Indian businessmen can be encouraged to increase trade with Bangladesh. - Safety measures:
India will have to tighten security on the border to prevent the possible influence of radical forces.
