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Anti-India Sentiment Rising in Bangladesh

43 0
01.10.2024

Over the past decade, there has been a noticeable shift in the political and social mindset of Bangladesh’s youth. What was once a close and collaborative re­lationship between Bangla­desh and India has gradual­ly evolved into one marked by skepticism, dissatis­faction, and, at times, out­right hostility. Anti-India sentiment has surged among younger generations, fueled by several factors, including historical grievances, contemporary politics, and the growing influence of religious and nationalistic ideologies.

India played a crucial role in Bangla­desh’s independence from Pakistan in 1971. Its support, both militarily and diplomatically, was instrumental in the success of the Liberation War, which ended with the formation of an inde­pendent Bangladesh. In the years im­mediately following independence, the relationship between the two coun­tries was generally positive. Shared cultural ties, linguistic affinities, and common geopolitical interests helped solidify this partnership.

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However, over time, this relationship has been marked by periods of strain. Issues such as water-sharing disputes, trade imbalances, border security con­cerns, and accusations of India’s med­dling in Bangladesh’s domestic politics have fostered a sense of unease. Many in Bangladesh feel that while their country benefited greatly from Indi­an support during its liberation, India has not always been a fair and equal partner in subsequent years. This sen­timent has, in particular, grown stron­ger among the younger generation, who did not witness the Liberation War and are more influenced by cur­rent political realities than by the his­torical ties between the two nations.

For the last 15 years, the Awami League government, under the leader­ship of Sheikh Hasina, has positioned India as a........

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