Bangladesh-India Ties Must Rise Above Political Equations

We believe Bangladesh’s call for India to create a “conducive environment” for Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s possible visit is both reasonable and timely. Dhaka and New Delhi have remained in touch over the proposed visit, reportedly being discussed for August 20-25. However, the importance of the visit goes beyond protocol or the fortunes of individual political leaders. A high-level engagement should strengthen the relationship between the two countries and help address concerns that have emerged in recent months.

The immediate concerns are well known. Bangladesh has asked India to expedite the extradition of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and other fugitives under the bilateral extradition treaty. Dhaka has also requested the handover of those accused of killing Inqilab Mancha leader Shaheed Sharif Osman Hadi. According to the foreign ministry, Sheikh Hasina’s open press interaction in New Delhi on August 5 “vitiated” the process. Meanwhile, Indian authorities have reportedly arrested two suspects in the Hadi killing but have yet to hand them over to Bangladesh. These developments have understandably added sensitivity to the proposed visit.

However, the broader issue is how the two countries choose to conduct their relationship. Bangladesh and India share deep economic, social and cultural ties that cannot depend on the interests of any particular political personality. When Dhaka makes a formal request under a bilateral treaty, India should respond through established legal and diplomatic channels. Similarly, political developments involving an individual should not determine the entire course of bilateral relations. More importantly, India’s long-term interests lie in maintaining a stable and mutually respectful relationship with the people of Bangladesh, just as Bangladesh benefits from constructive engagement with its largest neighbour.

Against this backdrop, the need of the hour is to put institutional relations ahead of political preferences. India should seriously consider Bangladesh’s extradition requests and communicate its position clearly, while Dhaka should continue to pursue dialogue and keep diplomatic channels open. Concurrently, the proposed visit could provide an opportunity to discuss matters that affect millions of people, including trade, connectivity, water sharing, energy and border management. Differences between neighbours are inevitable; nevertheless, both sides should prevent political disagreements from obstructing practical cooperation.

We expect Bangladesh-India relations to rise above individual leaders and short-term political calculations. The government’s “Bangladesh First” policy does not mean turning away from India; rather, it seeks a relationship based on sovereignty, equality, national dignity, non-interference and mutual benefit. A durable partnership must rest on these principles and on the interests of the two peoples. If both sides approach the proposed visit with openness and sincerity, it could help resolve outstanding concerns, rebuild confidence and place bilateral relations on a stronger, more balanced and mutually beneficial footing.