The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs has presented its report in the Lok Sabha today regarding the future of India-Bangladesh relations. A total of 33 important comments and recommendations have been made in this report of the committee headed by Shashi Tharoor. In this, detailed reports have been given on issues like restoration of democracy in Bangladesh, security, protection of minorities, border management, trade, connectivity and cultural relations.
Emphasis on keeping bilateral relations strong
Citing the historical, cultural and strategic relations between India and Bangladesh, the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs said that agreements like the spirit of 1971, land boundary agreement and maritime boundary demarcation are the strong foundation of the relations between the two countries. in the report bangladesh Recognizing the internal political challenges, India has been recommended to maintain a constructive, pragmatic and pro-democracy approach.
Concerns over the democratic process and elections
The committee expressed concern over political instability, uncertainty regarding elections and political violence in Bangladesh after August 2024. Also, while appreciating India’s calm diplomacy and non-intervention policy, the government has been asked to continuously encourage free, fair and credible elections.
Strict stance regarding attacks on minorities
The report described the incidents of attacks, damage to religious places and violence on minority communities in Bangladesh as serious. The committee has recommended the Ministry of External Affairs to keep it a diplomatic priority and put pressure on the Bangladesh government for quick and effective action.
Humanitarian perspective on Sheikh Hasina’s stay in India
The committee linked former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s stay in India to India’s humanitarian and civilizational traditions. The report made it clear that no political activity has been allowed from Indian soil and asked to keep the committee informed on developments related to extradition.
Recommendation to deal with anti-India narrative
Terming anti-India propaganda on Bangladeshi media and digital platforms as a challenge, the committee has recommended the creation of a Strategic Communication Unit within the Ministry of External Affairs, so that misinformation can be effectively responded to.
Vigilance on China’s increasing presence
The committee expressed concern over China’s growing role in Bangladesh – ports, airbases and defense cooperation. Especially keeping in mind the security interests related to the Siliguri Corridor and the Bay of Bengal, India has been asked to strengthen its position through vigilant surveillance and development cooperation.
Border Management and North East Security
Emphasizing on remaining fencing, smart surveillance and technological solutions on the India-Bangladesh border, the committee linked it to national security. Also, it has been recommended to strengthen intelligence partnership to prevent terrorism and infiltration in North-East India.
Role and coordination of states
Emphasizing the inclusion of border states like West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram in policy making, the committee has talked about making the Centre-State coordination mechanism more active.
Trade, Connectivity and Water Treaty
In view of Bangladesh’s exit from LDC in 2026, it is recommended to quickly finalize the CEPA agreement, accelerate connectivity projects and start timely negotiations on renewal of the 1996 Ganga Water Treaty.
Overall, the committee’s report offers a roadmap to take India-Bangladesh relations forward in a balanced, visionary and security-sensitive manner, keeping democracy, development and mutual trust at the centre.
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