Thawing the frost

THE meeting between the foreign secretaries of India and Bangladesh in Dhaka on Monday marks a cautious attempt to mend ties strained since the ouster of Sheikh Hasina's government. The political upheaval in Bangladesh and the ensuing asylum provided to Hasina by India cast a shadow over bilateral relations. This shift, compounded by rising tensions over minority harassment and diplomatic incidents, underscores the complexities of managing a relationship deeply rooted in shared history and mutual interests. The discussions in Dhaka focused on contentious issues, such as attacks on minorities, including Hindus, and the arrest of Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das on sedition charges. While New Delhi raised concerns over the safety of minorities, Dhaka argued that these incidents stem from political, not religious, factors. Such narratives reveal the challenges of bridging divergent perspectives, particularly when public sentiment and political optics are involved.

Interim leader Muhammad Yunus' administration has emphasised the need for a pragmatic relationship with India, balancing dignity with cooperation. His call to "forget transient matters" highlights the urgency to de-escalate tensions and prioritise long-term goals, such as trade and border management. India's insistence on protecting minority rights, coupled with Bangladesh's call for equity, underscores the need for nuanced diplomacy that respects each nation's sensitivities.

India, with its strategic commitment to a stable South Asia, must tread carefully. Overplaying its hand in domestic Bangladeshi politics risks alienating the current regime, potentially eroding trust. Meanwhile, Dhaka must recognise that India's concerns about minority safety and political stability are not merely rhetorical but reflect broader regional stability imperatives. This diplomatic reset is a crucial opportunity. By focusing on shared interests and maintaining open communication, the two neighbours can ensure that their relationship remains resilient amid political turbulence.