A senior official in Bangladesh’s interim government has stirred controversy with a provocative statement suggesting that Bangladesh should consider occupying India’s northeastern states if New Delhi launches a military strike against Pakistan in response to the recent Pahalgam terror attack.
Retired Major General ALM Fazlur Rahman, who heads the National Independent Commission of Inquiry into the 2009 Bangladesh Rifles (BDR) massacre, made the remarks in a Facebook post. Rahman proposed that Bangladesh initiate discussions with China on a joint military arrangement, further escalating concerns over regional stability.
His comments come at a time when relations between India and Bangladesh have been strained following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Bangladesh has recently re-engaged with Pakistan, holding its first foreign secretary-level talks in nearly 15 years and relaxing visa policies for Pakistani nationals.
The Bangladesh interim government has distanced itself from Rahman’s remarks, with Chief Adviser’s Office Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam clarifying that the statement was made in a personal capacity and does not reflect the government’s stance. “Bangladesh respects the sovereignty and independence of all nations and expects the same from others,” Alam stated.
Rahman’s comments have drawn sharp criticism from Indian officials, who view them as an attempt to destabilize the region. The Indian government has yet to issue an official response, but diplomatic observers suggest that the remarks could further strain ties between New Delhi and Dhaka.
As tensions rise in South Asia, Rahman’s statement has added a new dimension to the evolving geopolitical landscape, raising concerns about the potential implications for regional security.
