India and Bangladesh tensions surge as military buildup intensifies near key border corridor
Tensions have escalated between India and Bangladesh, with both countries ramping up military activities and expressing concerns over rhetoric and cooperation. Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has warned Bangladesh's interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, over anti-India remarks, while Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has dismissed the International Crimes Tribunal and accused it of targeting her and her party.
The Indian Army has initiated the construction of three new bases in West Bengal and Assam, near the strategically crucial Siliguri Corridor, in response to Bangladesh's military activities. This includes the modernization of Lalmonirhat airbase and expansion of northern infrastructure. Meanwhile, Indian security agencies have raised concerns over renewed defense cooperation between Pakistan and Bangladesh, involving training, intelligence sharing, and military equipment supply.
Sheikh Hasina, who thanked India for providing her refuge during her stay there, has accused Yunus of jeopardising Bangladesh-India relations. She described Yunus as a 'weak monarch' and criticized his leadership for growing anti-India rhetoric. Yunus, a Nobel laureate, has been accused by critics of being too compromising and not critical enough of Indian interests, particularly regarding border disputes and minority rights. Despite this, Yunus maintains a pragmatic and economically focused stance towards India, aiming for cooperation and stability.
The situation between India and Bangladesh remains tense, with both sides engaged in military preparations and expressing concerns over rhetoric and cooperation. While Sheikh Hasina has condemned Yunus for damaging Bangladesh-India relations, Yunus continues to advocate for pragmatic cooperation with India. The Indian government has cautioned Yunus to 'watch his words' as tensions persist.
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