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Tensions between India and Bangladesh have escalated in recent weeks, driven by political uncertainty in Dhaka, diplomatic disagreements, and growing public anger on both sides. However, despite the strain in bilateral relations, economic and trade ties between the two neighbours continue largely uninterrupted, underscoring their deep interdependence.

Diplomatic Friction Over Sheikh Hasina

A major point of contention is India’s expectation that former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in India, should be sent back to Bangladesh. The issue has generated strong reactions in Dhaka, with sections of the political class and the public accusing India of interference. This disagreement has further complicated relations at a time when Bangladesh is already grappling with internal instability.

Rising Unrest and Security Concerns

The political crisis has been accompanied by serious security concerns. Reports of attacks on Hindu minorities and the killing of student leader Sharif Osman Bin Hadi have intensified fears of lawlessness in Bangladesh. The death of Hadi, a prominent student activist, triggered widespread protests and further destabilised the situation.

In several demonstrations, anti-India slogans were raised, and some protesters went as far as issuing threats against India’s northeastern region, commonly known as the Seven Sisters. These developments have raised alarm in New Delhi, given the region’s strategic sensitivity.

Interim Government Faces Economic Challenges

Under the interim leadership of Muhammad Yunus, Bangladesh is experiencing both political uncertainty and economic stress. Inflationary pressures, job insecurity, and disruptions to governance have added to public dissatisfaction. Analysts note that prolonged instability could weaken investor confidence and slow economic growth.

India: Bangladesh’s Most Important Neighbour

Geography plays a decisive role in the relationship. India surrounds Bangladesh on three sides, sharing a border of approximately 4,097 km—about 94 per cent of Bangladesh’s total international boundary. This proximity makes India one of Bangladesh’s most crucial partners, not only politically but also economically and socially.

Every year, a large number of Bangladeshi citizens travel to India for employment, education, and medical treatment, further strengthening people-to-people ties.

Bangladesh’s Dependence on Indian Imports

Bangladesh relies heavily on India for several essential commodities required for daily life and industrial production. Key imports include:

• Rice: Bangladesh purchases significant quantities of Indian non-basmati rice. Recently, an agreement was signed to import 50,000 tonnes from an Indian company.

• Sugar: India supplies raw sugar, which is refined locally to meet domestic demand.

• Potatoes and Onions: India is a major supplier, exporting about 7.24 lakh tonnes of onions and 3.5 lakh tonnes of potatoes in 2023–24.

• Spices: Essential spices such as chilli, turmeric, cumin, and ginger are largely sourced from India.

• Medicines: Bangladesh imports affordable Indian generic medicines for diabetes and other common ailments.

• Textiles: The garment industry, a backbone of Bangladesh’s economy, depends heavily on Indian yarn and fabrics, employing millions of workers.

• Petroleum Products: India supplies diesel and other fuels through pipeline and long-term contractual arrangements.

Trade Ties Remain Resilient

Despite political tensions, trade between the two countries continues to benefit both sides. Experts warn that any major disruption in imports from India would hurt Bangladesh more severely, given its dependence on Indian goods for food security, healthcare, and industrial inputs.

While diplomacy remains strained, economic realities continue to bind the two neighbours closely—highlighting that stability and cooperation remain essential for the region’s long-term peace and prosperity.

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The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has delivered a landmark verdict sentencing former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death. She has been convicted on multiple charges of crimes against humanity linked to the violent crackdown on protestors during the 2024 student movement.

Background: From Student Protests to Nationwide Uprising

In July 2024, students across Bangladesh launched a peaceful movement demanding reforms in the government job quota system. What began as a campus-led protest soon transformed into a massive nationwide uprising, with a growing demand for Sheikh Hasina’s resignation.

The government responded with increasingly forceful measures to suppress the unrest. According to UN investigators, nearly 1,400 civilians were killed during the violence that engulfed the country.

On 5 August 2024, amid escalating turmoil, Sheikh Hasina resigned from the prime minister’s post and fled to India, citing threats to her life.

Formation of Interim Government and Tribunal

After her departure, an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus was formed. Soon after taking charge, the interim administration initiated several cases against Sheikh Hasina, accusing her of severe human rights violations.

A newly constituted International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) brought multiple charges against her, including mass killings, torture, and destruction of evidence.

Charges Against Sheikh Hasina

The ICT examined 84 pieces of evidence and extensive witness testimonies before delivering its verdict. The main allegations considered by the court included:

1. Ordering Killings Instead of Stopping Protests

She allegedly directed forces to open fire on peaceful demonstrators.

2. Use of Lethal Weapons and Drones

The prosecution claimed that security forces used deadly weapons, including drones, to suppress and kill protestors.

3. Aerial Attacks From Helicopters

Hasina was accused of ordering bombs to be dropped from helicopters onto student protestors.

4. Abductions and Burning of Bodies

Several protestors were allegedly abducted, and their bodies were burnt to destroy evidence.

5. Interference in Investigations

The court found evidence suggesting that investigative agencies were pressured to cover up atrocities.

The tribunal also ruled that former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan was guilty and handed him the death penalty. Another senior official, who turned government witness, received a five-year prison sentence.

Trial in Absentia and Allegations of Bias

Since Sheikh Hasina has been living in India, the trial was conducted in absentia. A state-appointed lawyer represented her, although there was no direct communication between Hasina and the legal counsel.

Her legal team has condemned the trial as politically motivated and lacking due process. They have filed appeals with the United Nations, arguing that the proceedings were biased and unfair.

Hasina herself issued a statement calling the verdict “politically driven and discriminatory,” alleging that she was denied the chance to be heard.

Unrest Erupts in Bangladesh After Verdict

Following the ICT’s ruling, fresh unrest has erupted across Bangladesh. Supporters of the Awami League clashed with police, resulting in at least two deaths. Protestors have blocked major roads in Dhaka, leading to widespread disruptions.

Police have responded with tear gas, batons, and stun grenades to control crowds. Viral videos circulating on social media show officers beating demonstrators and large groups marching toward important locations, including Dhanmondi, the area of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s residence.

The Awami League, which was banned in 2024 by the interim government, has called for a two-day nationwide shutdown, alleging that the verdict is politically engineered.

India Closely Monitoring the Situation

India is monitoring developments in Bangladesh with “close attention,” especially since Sheikh Hasina is currently under India’s protection. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that as a neighbouring country, India is carefully observing every development in Bangladesh and remains committed to the welfare of Bangladeshi citizens.

Hasina’s Escape to India

During the height of the 2024 unrest, Sheikh Hasina reportedly fled Bangladesh late at night and entered India, taking temporary shelter before being moved to Delhi with support from the Indian government. Reports at the time suggested credible threats to her life.

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