Following the highly coordinated military strikes under Operation Sindoor, India has heightened its security measures across all fronts, particularly in response to potential retaliation from Pakistan. However, experts suggest that India must also closely monitor developments in Bangladesh, given the evolving geopolitical landscape in South Asia.
Operation Sindoor: A Strategic Shift
India’s largest cross-border anti-terror operation since 1971 targeted nine terror-linked sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The strikes were a measured response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 civilian lives. While India has reinforced its defenses against Pakistan’s potential countermeasures, analysts argue that Bangladesh’s internal security dynamics could also impact India’s regional stability.
Why Bangladesh Matters
Bangladesh has historically maintained strong diplomatic ties with India, but recent developments indicate growing concerns over extremist activities and cross-border security challenges. Key factors include:
- Rising Extremism: Reports suggest an increase in radical elements operating within Bangladesh, some of whom have links to Pakistan-based terror outfits.
- Border Security: India shares a 4,096-km border with Bangladesh, making it vulnerable to infiltration and illegal arms smuggling.
- Political Uncertainty: Bangladesh’s domestic political shifts could influence its stance on regional security, affecting India’s counter-terrorism efforts.
India’s Next Steps
Security experts recommend that India:
- Strengthen intelligence-sharing with Bangladesh to counter extremist threats.
- Enhance border surveillance to prevent cross-border infiltration.
- Engage diplomatically to ensure Bangladesh remains a stable ally in South Asia.
As India navigates the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, maintaining regional stability will be crucial. While Pakistan remains the primary focus, India must also keep a watchful eye on Bangladesh to safeguard its national security interests.
