An academic has called upon the Government of India to take decisive action in response to the reported killings of Hindus in neighbouring Bangladesh. The appeal was made during a prominent literary festival in coastal Karnataka.
Alarming Developments in Bangladesh
Speaking at a session titled ‘India's Challenging Neighbourhood: Role of Extra Regional Powers’ during the eighth edition of the Mangaluru Literature Festival, Swasti Rao, Associate Professor at OP Jindal Global University, expressed deep concern. She described the situation in Bangladesh as "alarming" and drew a historical parallel.
"In 1971, when a major crisis arose in Bangladesh, India intervened to protect the people. However, Hindus are being killed there once again," Rao stated. She emphasized that the Indian government must not remain idle and should initiate some form of immediate action regarding this critical issue.
India's Stance and Regional Diplomacy
Rao also elaborated on India's broader diplomatic posture. She noted that India maintains robust relations with major global powers and blocs, including the USA, Russia, the European Union, and the African Union. Furthermore, she highlighted India's record of providing significant assistance to all its neighbouring countries.
"These nations must and will stand as strong support for India in the coming days," she asserted, underscoring the importance of these partnerships.
The SAARC Dilemma and China's Growing Clout
Responding to questions about China's gradual influence over SAARC nations, Rao pointed out the challenges India faces within the regional bloc. She recalled that India boycotted the SAARC summit a few years ago in protest against Pakistan's sponsorship of terrorism.
However, she advised against a complete ban on the summit. "India should not completely ban the SAARC summit. Instead, it must find an alternative strategy. Otherwise, China will gain control," Rao warned. She stressed the urgency for India to devise a new solution before China solidifies its grip on the region.
India's Credibility as a Neighbour
Echoing the sentiment of India's supportive role, UN permanent representative Ruchira Kamboj, who participated in the same discussion, praised India's contributions. "India's contribution to its neighbouring nations is immense," Kamboj said.
She highlighted that whenever problems or natural disasters have struck neighbouring countries, India has provided significant help and stood by them during emergencies. "Credibility is important here, and India has always maintained the trust of those who placed their faith in it," Kamboj concluded, reinforcing the nation's reliable image.
The discussions at the Mangaluru Lit Fest brought to the fore the complex interplay of humanitarian concerns, regional diplomacy, and strategic competition that defines India's engagement with its immediate neighbourhood.
