Tensions Rise as Bangladesh Embraces China, Straining Ties with India

Bilateral relations between India and Bangladesh have soured significantly in recent months, primarily due to New Delhi's controversial decision to grant asylum to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This shift has caused both nations' diplomatic contacts to become strained, as Bangladesh's interim government, led by Nobel Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, appears to be leaning towards China for support.

Historically, India and Bangladesh enjoyed a close partnership during Hasina's tenure. However, the fall of her government last year marked a turning point in their relations. The ongoing tensions are exacerbated by India's slow response to Dhaka's requests for the extradition of Hasina, further complicating an already delicate situation.

In a significant meeting last month in Beijing, Md Touhid Hossain, Bangladesh’s foreign affairs adviser, conferred with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. During their discussions, Wang Yi assured Hossain that China would offer refuge to Hasina, signaling a clear shift in Bangladesh’s foreign alliances.

"China supports Bangladesh in safeguarding its national independence, sovereignty and national dignity, exploring a development path that suits its national conditions, respects the choice of the Bangladeshi people, and is willing to continue to provide assistance for Bangladesh’s economic and social development,"
— Wang Yi, Chinese Foreign Minister.

The implications of this meeting have raised alarm bells in New Delhi. Chietigj Bajpaee, a senior research fellow at Chatham House's Asia-Pacific programme, noted that the interim government's alignment with countries like China and Pakistan has intensified mutual suspicions.

"The fact that the interim government is cosying up to countries with which India has historically had difficult relations – not only China but also Pakistan – has deepened mutual suspicions,"
— Chietigj Bajpaee.

Reports of escalating violence against Hindus in Bangladesh have also contributed to the deteriorating relationship. This violence has underscored India's concerns regarding the treatment of its minority communities and has led to a sense of urgency in addressing the bilateral issues.