India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the anti-Hasina wave in Bangladesh, acknowledging India’s limited ability to intervene. He discussed relationships with neighbors, ongoing unrest in Myanmar, and the potential revival of SAARC amidst concerns about China’s growing influence in the region.

During a recent meeting with the Consultative Committee on External Affairs, India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, acknowledged the rising anti-Sheikh Hasina sentiment in Bangladesh. He indicated that despite recognizing this situation prior to the violent ousting of Hasina’s government on August 5, 2024, India lacked the leverage to intervene significantly, acknowledging that they could only offer advice to the former Prime Minister.

Dr. Jaishankar highlighted the awareness of various stakeholders, including the United Nations, regarding the turmoil in Bangladesh. He referenced remarks by U.N. Human Rights Chief Volker Turk, who warned the Bangladeshi military against confrontations with unarmed protesters, stating that such actions could lead to a U.N. ban on the army from peacekeeping duties.

The discussion also encompassed India’s evolving relationship with Bangladesh, particularly following the interim government’s initiation of dialogue. The relationship remains strained, particularly due to India’s asylum provisions for Ms. Hasina. Although Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri visited Bangladesh in December 2024, the potential for a formal Prime Ministerial meeting at the upcoming BIMSTEC summit remains unclear.

Moreover, the discourse involved the unrest in Myanmar following its military coup. Ethnic armed groups have intensified their conflict with the junta, prompting concerns about the repercussions for India’s northeastern states. Dr. Jaishankar addressed the preparedness of Indian border infrastructure to cope with this situation, providing a comprehensive perspective to Members of Parliament.

Additionally, Dr. Jaishankar discussed the future of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), which has remained inactive since 2014. Despite its suspension, he insinuated that revival of the organization is plausible. Members also voiced concerns regarding China’s increasing influence in the region and sought clarity on India’s counteractions in the next decade to mitigate this.

Dr. Jaishankar’s insights illustrate India’s nuanced approach to regional diplomacy and highlight the significance of maintaining dialogue amidst rising tensions with neighboring countries.

In conclusion, Dr. S. Jaishankar’s remarks shed light on India’s diplomatic stance regarding developments in Bangladesh and Myanmar. Acknowledging the lack of influence over the anti-Hasina movements and the rising tensions in Myanmar, India continues to prioritize dialogue with its neighbors. His comments on the future of SAARC also reflect a potential shift in regional cooperation dynamics, emphasizing the need to counter increasing Chinese influence in South Asia.

Original Source: www.thehindu.com

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