India–Bangladesh Relations

This article examines the prospects for India–Bangladesh relations in the wake of the massive victory achieved by the Awami League under the leadership of Sheikh Hasina in the December 2008 elections. The analysis is based on the promise for change contained in the Awami League manifesto. This manifesto is a comprehensive document covering the whole gamut of issues including security, terrorism, fundamentalism, economic development with social justice, improved communications and infrastructure, as well as the need for good relations with neighbouring countries. On all these issues, Sheikh Hasina's perspective is a staunchly nationalist one. The implementation of her ideas for change provides an excellent template for moving India–Bangladesh relations forward. The article provides an in-depth analysis of this, covering five broad issues—namely, security, connectivity, border management, the sector of water resources and the sector of trade, investment and economic cooperation.