Opinion
Needed closer Indo-Bangla understanding
A B M S Zahur
We are aware of the fact that the present relationship between India and Bangladesh is not very much cordial. The knowledgeable public of Bangladesh understand that a number of hurdles are to be crossed before these countries can come closer. The statements as "we can easily solve that problems because we do not have any serious hurdle like Kashmir" are, perhaps either oversimplification of the solution of accumulated irritants or ignoring them deliberately. In case of Kashmir crisis both India and Pakistan are trying to negotiate amicably without adequate representation of Kashmiris under pressure from the US. So far as Bangladesh is concerned problems are bilateral. These problems, if ignored by both the countries, may become tri- or multi-lateral with the passage of time. Though India played a pivotal role in attaining the independence of Bangladesh, not much of the bilateral problems could be solved satisfactorily during the last 34 years. In fact new problems are arising mainly because of peculiar Indian attitude. Now time has come for it to realise the necessity of cooperation from its smaller neighbours in its quest for rapid economic growth and rise in stature as one of the major powers of Asia.No doubt Bangladesh could not have established itself as an Independent country so quickly had there been no strong Indian support. This does not mean that a sovereign country like Bangladesh should behave like a stooge of India. India never cared to develop real friendship with Bangladesh perhaps because Bangladesh is a poor least developed country. By starting Farakka Barrage by occupying the Island of Talpatti, by depriving Bangladesh of its legitimate share of river waters, by killing Bangladeshis on slightest pretexts on Bangladesh border, by continuous 'push in' of so-called Bangladeshis ignoring all international formalities, by not reducing adequately the serious Indo-Bangla trade imbalance the Indian government is certainly not helping development of good relationship. The devices like joint economic commission or joint river commission can, perhaps, help exchange of data or bring out certain facts. The experts can help the political leadership to understand the problems, it is up to the political leaders to decide as to how much to gain or concede from the deals. Plainly speaking, if Bangladesh cannot be allowed free access to Nepal and Bhutan (both members of BIMSTEC and SAARC), easier access to Indian market or complete border demarcation or proper consultation in each case where barbed wire fencing is to be constructed within 150 yard, of border is not held or practice of 'push in' is stopped we cannot see any prospect for better relationship between these countries. In this dismal scenario, however, we see some light after the recent visit of Indian Foreign Minister Mr Natvar Singh. Situation may further improve with the ensuing visit of Indian Commerce Minister. The SAARC Summit, if held, as per schedule, may further facilitate increasing understanding. However, to be realistic we should not expect a sudden turn or positive change. We shall have to proceed step by step after we complete prioritisation of issues. As we proceed the press of both sides will have to be careful, particularly in handling sensitive issues. It would be wrong to assume that backed by USA, India would be able to dominate in the SAARC region. Obviously the US would like to support India if it can compete with China both economically and militarily. Despite recent trend for high growth it is doubtful about future ability of India. What is more important for India is its domestic peace. If peace can be ensured the rate of growth will automatically rise. In attaining her peace or prosperity Bangladesh can prove to be important. Cooperation from Bangladesh depends on removal of present irritants and hurdles. Despite Indian Foreign Minister's assurance for a better future no positive signs can be traced. Killing of Bangladeshis by BSF, border fencing, or push in are going on. Even malpractice of supplying sub-standard or rotten materials by Indian suppliers alleged to be in practice. Let us wait for further discussion with the Indian Commerce Minister. The economic benefit is more attractive than cultural affinity. Without waiting for Indian goodwill we may start vigorous effort to obtain supplies from Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam or China. We may go for further development of trade with EU countries or east European countries or Latin American countries. In taking such measures there may be temporary short supply to the inconvenience of traders, industrialists or common men. The government may therefore take the concerned people in its confidence. Once we can successfully accomplish the job things will automatically improve. Let us not give up hope. It may not be too distant a future when India and Bangladesh would come closer because they need each other as neighbours. Without Indian cooperation there, perhaps, cannot be rapid development of technical capability particularly in sectors like agriculture, information technology, medicine, water management or solar energy or controlling fundamentalism. On the other hand India may be benefitted through cooperation from Bangladesh in her effort for developing the eastern provinces or West Bengal, or overcoming present energy crisis, or easing port congestion in Kolkata etc. What is needed is continuous dialogue with free mind in cordial atmosphere. There is no easy solution to remove the hurdles in developing better relation. Bureaucrats or experts may not be able to come up with some easy solutions to the problems. But mutual trust, once created, will certainly bring good result to the satisfaction of the peoples of both the countries. As we see common peoples of both sides are keen to develop cordial and close relationship among themselves, it is up to political authorities to decide as to whether the proposition for mutual sacrifice within permissible limit, when necessary, should be acceptable or not. A B M S Zahur is a retired Joint Secretary.
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