The walls of Dhaka have become covered with political anger through graffiti created by young people expressing their frustrations with years of no alternatives. Many people will cast their first votes, and many questions about Bangladesh’s India policy will also be re-visited in February’s election.
India has been the primary anchor of Bangladesh’s relationship for many years, providing that anchor for Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s Government. After she was violently removed from power and fled to India, the previously supportive view of the Indo-Bangladesh relationship took a dramatic turn for the worse because many Bangladeshi’s view this as India backing her government.
That negative view became even more pronounced when Hasina fled to India after the civil protests against her when she was ousted. Now, are all over campuses, youth slogans openly call for independence from Indian influence – “Dhaka, Not Delhi” can be heard resounding across the country. The changing landscape from anti-Indian sentiment as fringe to mainstream demonstrates that the overall Indian-Bangladeshi relationship is at its most fragile point, and while the election presents an opportunity for carefully crafted retooling and rebuilding of the Indian-Bangladesh relationship, both countries will be watching each other with great interest.
How youth anger is reshaping anti-India sentiment
The erosion of democracy in Bangladesh is linked to India’s actions, according to young adults in the country. They mention the disputed elections and intervening in their nation’s affairs as reasons.
Mosharraf Hossain states, “The young generation feels India has been intervening in our country for many years.” India has been accused by some of being a reason for the rise of authoritarian rule by allowing it and doing little to stop border killings and ongoing disputes regarding water. Cultural flash points stoke the fires of nationalistic emotions. Cricket disputes led to unforeseen diplomatic repercussions due to the heightened tensions.
There has been added frustration over trade barriers and the suspension of visas. According to Avinash Paliwal, “Delhi is struggling in Dhaka because of deep anti-India sentiment in Bangladesh.” His opinion is that Indian domestic rhetoric has formed hatred towards India in the eyes of many people living in Bangladesh. This anti-India sentiment has shaped how young people will vote when the next election comes around.
Can a new government ease tensions?
India has expanded its influence in a discreet way. S Jaishankar made a trip to Dhaka for Khaleda Zia’s funeral. He had a closed meeting with BNP leader Tarique Rahman. Analysts believe BNP is best poised for a reset.
“If the BNP forms a government after the election, this offers a good foundation for both sides to move forward,” says Thomas Kean. Despite a change in leadership, challenges will persist. India is concerned about minority safety and continued instability. Bangladesh is looking for respect and a change in policy. “We share 54 rivers… we share the same history,” says Shafiqul Alam. However, there is still considerable public anger and emotion about this matter. “A reset won’t be easy simply because there’s an election,” warns Alam. However, geography guarantees engagement will always happen.
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