Sheikh Hasina’s Economic Success Meets Political Crisis in Bangladesh

Sheikh Hasina’s impressive economic record may have masked deep political troubles in Bangladesh, leading to her dramatic fall from power. Since fleeing to India on August 5 amid widespread protests, Hasina has been staying at Hindon Air Force base near Delhi. Despite her safety, she is grappling with the unexpected ouster from a country she helped become the second largest economy in South Asia by 2016.

India, while offering refuge to Hasina, is closely watching the situation in Bangladesh. The Indian government has engaged with the interim Bangladeshi military leadership to restore stability and is concerned about violence against Hindu minorities and Awami League supporters. New Delhi is also monitoring how the Bangladesh Army handles Islamist groups like Jamaat-e-Islami and Hefazat-e-Islam, who have connections with Pakistan and other radical elements.

As India remains vigilant with its borders secured by the BSF and Assam Rifles, the fallout from Bangladesh’s political turmoil is raising concerns. With neighboring countries facing their own crises—Pakistan, the Maldives, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Nepal—India is keen to prevent instability from spreading.

A senior Indian Cabinet Minister stressed the need for national unity amidst global unrest, highlighting that while India faces challenges, it is essential to stay united. “There’s global turmoil, and we need to stay strong,” the minister said, referring to conflicts in places like Iran, Gaza, and Ukraine.

India’s firm stance is evident in External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s upcoming visit to the Maldives, where he will launch new projects, underscoring India’s role in regional stability. Although India is prepared to work with Bangladesh’s interim leaders, any shift towards Chinese influence or radical Islamism in Dhaka would be a major concern.

Despite knowing that Western powers have long sought Hasina’s removal, India remains committed to working with Bangladesh’s new government, provided it safeguards minority rights and regional stability. The Modi administration is preparing for various scenarios to manage the political fallout from its neighbor’s crisis.