Days After Hasina Conviction, Doval Meets Bangladesh NSA: What’s Brewing?
In a high-profile meeting, India’s National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval held talks with Bangladesh’s NSA Major General Tarique Ahmed Siddique, days after former PM Khaleda Zia’s graft conviction. The timing has sparked speculation about India’s stance on Bangladesh’s political climate ahead of key elections.
Khaleda Zia’s Conviction: Political Fallout
On October 29, Bangladesh’s ex-PM Khaleda Zia was sentenced to five years in prison in a corruption case. The ruling Awami League, led by PM Sheikh Hasina, denies political motives, but the opposition BNP calls it a crackdown ahead of December 2023 elections.
India, a traditional Awami League ally, faces scrutiny over its silence on the verdict. Analysts question whether New Delhi tacitly endorses Hasina’s government, risking backlash from BNP supporters.
Doval-Siddique Meeting: Key Takeaways
Officially, the discussions focused on security cooperation, but sources reveal broader agendas:
- Counterterrorism & Stability – Both nations reinforced efforts against militancy and cross-border threats.
- Election Preparedness – India seeks to avoid a repeat of past violent, disputed polls in Bangladesh.
- Rohingya Crisis – Dhaka pressed for stronger Indian support in repatriating refugees to Myanmar.
Why Timing Matters for India-Bangladesh Ties
The meeting’s proximity to Zia’s conviction fuels theories about India’s strategic alignment. Critics argue Delhi risks alienating the BNP, potentially pushing Bangladesh closer to China—a key investor in infrastructure projects like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Regional Ripples: China, Pakistan Watching Closely
- China may exploit political rifts to expand influence if BNP feels sidelined by India.
- Pakistan could leverage anti-India sentiment among BNP factions.
What Next for India-Bangladesh Relations?
With elections nearing, India must balance support for Hasina with neutrality to avoid accusations of interference. Dhaka’s stability is critical for Delhi’s connectivity plans (e.g., BBIN) and countering Chinese dominance in South Asia.
