Controversy Erupts Over Yunus’ Comments on Northeast India and China’s Influence
Bangladesh’s Muhammad Yunus has sparked outrage in India, particularly among Northeast leaders, by suggesting China expand its influence in the region. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Tipra Motha Party leader Pradyot Manikya expressed strong disapproval, with Manikya suggesting the breaking up of Bangladesh for better sea access. Concerns have been raised about the strategic implications of Yunus’ comments and China’s growing presence.
The remarks made by Muhammad Yunus, Bangladesh’s interim chief adviser, regarding China’s influence in India’s northeastern states, have generated significant backlash. Leaders from the Northeast are particularly offended, with some suggesting extreme measures such as the partition of Bangladesh. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma condemned Yunus’ comments as offensive, emphasizing the need to address vulnerabilities related to India’s strategic ‘Chicken’s Neck’ corridor.
Pradyot Manikya, the chief of the Tipra Motha Party, proposed an audacious solution, asserting that splitting Bangladesh would be a more effective way to secure sea access than investing in expensive engineering projects. Yunus had previously stated during a visit to China that Bangladesh serves as the “only guardian of the ocean” for India’s landlocked northeastern states, thus inviting China’s involvement in the region.
The video of Yunus’ controversial remarks began circulating widely on social media, prompting widespread condemnation. Sarma criticized Yunus’ reference to the seven northeastern states as “landlocked” and positioned Bangladesh as their ocean access guardian, highlighting the lingering narrative of vulnerability concerning the Chicken’s Neck corridor.
Manikya expressed further frustration, suggesting a more assertive approach from India; he criticized past decisions, specifically the 1947 relinquishment of control over the Chittagong port, which he labeled as a significant error. He noted the historical inclination of indigenous tribes from the Chittagong hill tracts toward India while advocating for the rights of the displaced communities living in dire conditions in Bangladesh.
Congress leader Pawan Khera also echoed the concern regarding Yunus’ remarks, stressing the strategic risks posed by China’s expanding influence in the region. He accused the Indian government of neglecting the Northeast’s security, suggesting that Bangladesh’s overtures towards China could encircle India strategically. Khera further remarked on the irony of Yunus’ comments when considering that Bangladesh itself is nearly entirely surrounded by Indian territory.
The reaction to Muhammad Yunus’ remarks underscores the heightened sensitivities in India’s Northeast regarding national security and sovereignty. Leaders from the region have expressed vehement opposition to Yunus’ characterization of the northeastern states, and some have suggested extreme measures as responses. The dialogue emphasizes the need for improved infrastructure and a more robust approach to regional relationships amidst growing concerns about China’s influence.
Original Source: www.wionews.com
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