Bangladesh’s Double Standards: Following a coup in Bangladesh, an interim government led by Mohammad Yunus has taken charge. Since its formation, this government has frequently criticized India, targeting both Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and other issues. Despite this confrontational stance, Bangladesh is now seeking significant financial assistance from India, showcasing a stark contrast between their words and actions.
Strained Relations After Sheikh Hasina’s Departure
India and Bangladesh enjoyed stable relations during Sheikh Hasina’s tenure. However, after her government’s fall, ties between the two nations have become increasingly tense. The new interim government, under Yunus’ leadership, has consistently taken steps that undermine India. From approaching the International Court in efforts to bring back Sheikh Hasina to blaming India for floods in Bangladesh, the current government’s anti-India agenda has become evident.
Financial Aid Despite Anti-India Stance
Despite their ongoing hostility, Bangladesh now looks to India for continued financial support. According to Salehuddin Ahmed, the interim government’s Finance Advisor, Bangladesh wants the projects funded by India to remain unaffected. He emphasized the importance of these projects, assuring that they will continue even under the new government.
Ahmed further expressed hopes that the cooperation between the two countries will remain intact, stating that Bangladesh’s government is in communication with the Indian High Commission, seeking continued funding.
Request for More Indian Projects
Bangladesh’s Double Standards: Beyond the existing projects, Bangladesh is also pushing for more investment from India. Salehuddin Ahmed indicated that Bangladesh is eager to secure additional large-scale projects to benefit their nation, stressing the need to keep economic aid flowing from India. However, this request for assistance starkly contrasts with their hostile rhetoric, highlighting the gap between Bangladesh’s words and actions.
Three Accusations Against India in a Month
Relations between India and Bangladesh, once strong under Sheikh Hasina, have rapidly deteriorated. In just one month, Bangladesh has lodged three separate accusations against India. The first came during the monsoon season when Bangladesh blamed India for flooding caused by excess water release.
Subsequently, tensions escalated when Bangladeshi nationals attempted to cross into India illegally, resulting in two deaths. Bangladesh officially protested against this. Lastly, the country threatened to take India to the International Court over the ousting of Sheikh Hasina.
