Guwahati: In a pointed critique of historical foreign policy, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has ignited a fervent debate by asserting that India’s political leadership failed to capitalize on the strategic advantages gained after the 1971 war that led to the creation of Bangladesh. According to Sarma, a decisive military victory was not translated into lasting strategic gains, reducing a potential reshaping of regional dynamics to what he termed “a one-sided act of generosity.”
The CM’s assertions bring to the forefront several contentious aspects of the enduring relationship between India and Bangladesh. He highlighted the divergence from the initial secular foundation of Bangladesh, noting the subsequent declaration of Islam as the state religion in 1988, which he argues has contributed to the decline of the Hindu population from 20 per cent to below 8 per cent, amidst persistent reports of religious persecution.
Further fueling the controversy, Sarma criticized the perceived oversight in not securing a land corridor through northern Bangladesh, which he contends would have significantly enhanced connectivity between India’s northeastern states and the mainland. He emphasizes the vulnerability of the strategically crucial Siliguri Corridor, also known as the “Chicken’s Neck,” which remains a point of concern.
Expanding on the theme of missed opportunities, the CM cited the lack of concrete agreements on migration issues impacting India’s border states, the failure to secure assured access to the Chittagong Port, and the inadequate measures taken to prevent Bangladesh from becoming a safe haven for anti-India insurgent groups.
In a direct challenge to historical narratives, Sarma specifically questioned the handling of post-war negotiations by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s administration. He suggests that the administration’s actions did not fully leverage the military triumph, resulting in a series of strategic shortcomings that continue to affect the region.
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