China Allegedly Conspiring Against India in Bangladesh, Strengthens Ties with Jamaat-e-Islami

DHAKA — China is reportedly engaging in anti-India activities in Bangladesh, with Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen recently meeting with members of the Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh party. The visit has raised concerns about China’s increasing influence in the country, particularly with organizations known for their opposition to India.

Reports suggest that following the fall of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government, China has been actively connecting with India’s adversaries in Bangladesh. By fostering relationships with the new government and Islamic political parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami, China is positioning itself in a way that could potentially challenge India’s influence in the region.

China's Strategic Moves in Bangladesh

On Monday, Ambassador Yao Wen visited the Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh office in Dhaka, where he reportedly praised the party’s organization and influence. This has sparked controversy, as the party has historically been anti-India, and Sheikh Hasina’s government had previously banned it. However, the ban was lifted under the interim government led by Mohammad Yunus, raising further questions about the party's renewed political presence.

China's growing rapport with Jamaat-e-Islami could be a cause for concern for India, as the party has often expressed discontent with India's influence in Bangladesh. The Chinese ambassador’s remarks commending the party’s structure suggest an increasing alignment between China and political forces in Bangladesh that are critical of India.

Historical Ties and Emerging Concerns

China’s engagement with Bangladesh is not new. Even during Sheikh Hasina’s tenure, China was accused of orchestrating efforts to undermine India’s regional interests. China had also maintained close ties with Hasina’s Awami League, but its recent outreach to the interim government and opposition parties, such as Jamaat-e-Islami, has heightened worries in New Delhi.

If these political developments lead to a change in leadership, particularly with Chinese backing, the implications for India could be significant. Jamaat-e-Islami’s ascent to power, with China's support, may lead to a government less cooperative on critical issues such as terrorism, border security, and regional stability. China could also push forward its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects in Bangladesh, further diminishing India’s influence in the region.

Potential Impact on India-Bangladesh Relations

There are growing concerns that China’s interference could impact previously established agreements between India and Bangladesh. In June, several key agreements were signed during Sheikh Hasina’s visit to India. However, as noted by Touhid Hossain, the foreign affairs advisor to the interim government, these agreements could be subject to review if they are deemed inconsistent with Bangladesh’s national interests.

As China continues to deepen its ties with Bangladesh’s political landscape, India faces new challenges in maintaining its influence in the region. The evolving dynamics highlight the delicate balance of power and the geopolitical complexities that shape the future of India-Bangladesh relations.