BANGLADESH’S evolving approach towards India signals an important shift in South Asian regional politics. Dhaka is increasingly emphasizing that relations with New Delhi must be based on sovereign equality, reciprocity and national interest rather than political pressure or expectations arising from India’s larger regional position.

This approach is visible in Bangladesh’s handling of high-level political engagement. A possible visit by Tarique Rahman to India has been linked to the creation of a “conducive environment”, indicating that Dhaka does not view engagement with New Delhi as an objective in itself. Instead, political interaction is being assessed against Bangladesh’s own interests and concerns.

Sheikh Hasina’s presence in India has emerged as another major source of friction. Dhaka has objected to India hosting the former prime minister while allowing her to make........

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