Introduction
India and Bangladesh share deep historical, cultural, and geographical ties. The two countries are not only neighbors but also share a 4,096 km-long international border—the fifth-longest in the world. Since the independence of Bangladesh in 1971, India has played a significant role in supporting its neighbor politically, economically, and militarily.
However, over the decades, many Bangladeshis have developed concerns over certain issues that they believe indicate inequality, pressure, or even exploitation in the bilateral relationship. On the other hand, India views the relationship as one of mutual cooperation and regional security. In this essay, we explore the perceived exploitative issues, analyze facts, and seek balanced insights into the complex Indo-Bangladesh relationship.
1. Water Sharing Disputes
The Teesta River Issue
One of the most controversial issues between India and Bangladesh is the sharing of the Teesta River’s water. The river originates in India and flows into Bangladesh, supporting the livelihoods of millions of farmers in both countries. While an interim agreement was drafted in 2011, it was never signed due to opposition from the Indian state of West Bengal.
Bangladeshi Perspective:
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Bangladesh receives only a small share of Teesta waters during the dry season.
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It hampers irrigation and agriculture in northern Bangladesh.
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Many feel that India is using the upper-hand in geography to control water unfairly.
Indian Perspective:
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India cites the needs of its own farmers in West Bengal.
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Internal political conflicts delay agreements.
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India insists that it supports a “fair and equitable” solution.
2. Border Killings and Security Concerns
Despite friendly ties, border security remains a tense and painful area. There have been numerous reports of Bangladeshi nationals being killed by India’s Border Security Force (BSF), mostly over illegal border crossings or smuggling activities.
Bangladeshi Concerns:
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Use of deadly force against civilians is considered excessive.
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Many of the victims are unarmed or poor villagers.
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It creates fear and anger among border communities.
Indian Standpoint:
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India accuses cross-border smugglers of trafficking drugs, cattle, or arms.
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BSF claims that force is used only in defense.
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India has promised to reduce lethal measures, but incidents continue.
3. Trade Imbalance and Economic Dependency
Trade Deficit
Bangladesh imports far more from India than it exports. In 2023, India exported about $16 billion worth of goods to Bangladesh, while importing less than $2 billion. Many economists and citizens believe this reflects an unequal economic relationship.
Concerns from Bangladesh:
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Indian goods flood the Bangladeshi market.
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Local industries suffer from cheaper Indian alternatives.
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India’s non-tariff barriers prevent Bangladeshi products from entering Indian markets easily.
India’s Response:
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India grants duty-free access to most Bangladeshi exports under SAFTA.
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Bangladesh’s exports are growing, especially in garments and jute.
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India argues that trade is driven by market demand and comparative advantage.
4. Transit and Connectivity Projects
India has long sought transit access through Bangladesh to connect its northeastern states with the mainland. Bangladesh has allowed road, rail, and port access under several agreements.
Why Some in Bangladesh Feel Exploited:
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Transit benefits India directly while Bangladesh bears environmental and traffic costs.
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There is little economic compensation or equal opportunity for Bangladesh.
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Infrastructure upgrades are funded mostly by Bangladesh’s loans or public money.
India’s Position:
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India has financed infrastructure projects in Bangladesh.
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Improved connectivity boosts Bangladesh’s own trade with Bhutan, Nepal, and India.
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Both countries benefit from increased regional integration.
5. Energy and Natural Resources
India has invested in Bangladesh’s energy sector through joint ventures. Bangladesh also exports electricity and allows Indian companies to invest in natural gas and coal projects.
Controversial Examples:
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The Rampal Power Plant, a coal-based Indian project near the Sundarbans, raised environmental alarms.
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Many argue Bangladesh is allowing India to profit from its natural resources.
Counterview:
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Bangladesh needs foreign investment and electricity for development.
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Indian projects create local jobs and transfer technology.
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Environmental concerns are valid, but global standards are being followed.
6. Political Influence and Strategic Pressure
Some analysts believe India wields significant political influence over Bangladesh’s internal affairs.
Examples of Perceived Pressure:
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Allegations that India favors certain political parties in Bangladesh.
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India’s silence on issues like democracy, human rights, or election fairness in Bangladesh.
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India sometimes pushes diplomatic priorities that don’t align with Bangladeshi public opinion (e.g., support for Israel or strategic military pacts).
India’s Official Stance:
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India claims it respects Bangladesh’s sovereignty.
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Relations are based on national interest, not political favoritism.
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Strategic partnerships are meant for regional peace, not domination.
7. Cultural Influence and Identity Concerns
Indian movies, TV channels, fashion, and music are popular in Bangladesh. Some critics argue that this creates a kind of cultural invasion, weakening local traditions and identity.
Bangladeshi Concerns:
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Cultural industries are becoming overdependent on Indian content.
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Local artists and producers lose market space.
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It may affect national identity and language preservation.
Balanced View:
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Culture is naturally shared among neighbors.
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Bangladeshis have the right to regulate foreign content.
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Local creativity and investment must be encouraged.
8. Bangladesh’s Growing Regional Importance
It’s important to recognize that Bangladesh is not helpless or voiceless in this relationship. In recent years, it has gained global attention due to:
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Strong GDP growth and stable development.
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Strategic geographic location linking South and Southeast Asia.
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Diplomatic ties with China, the US, Russia, Japan, and the EU.
Bangladesh has used “balanced diplomacy” to avoid becoming a pawn in the India-China-US rivalry. While India remains a key partner, Bangladesh is increasingly asserting its national interests.
Moving Toward a Fairer Partnership
The idea that India is “exploiting” Bangladesh is a serious claim that cannot be ignored. However, it’s equally important to analyze whether this perception is based on fact, fear, or a complex mix of both. There is a strong need to:
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Resolve water-sharing disputes fairly and scientifically.
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Ensure humane border practices and end civilian killings.
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Balance trade through easier market access and technology sharing.
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Respect each other’s sovereignty and political independence.
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Promote mutual culture and education, not dominance.
Conclusion
Bangladesh and India are more than just neighbors—they are deeply linked by history, people, geography, and trade. Like all close relationships, tensions and differences are natural. But those differences should be addressed through dialogue, respect, and fairness.
It is understandable that many Bangladeshis feel India sometimes acts as the “bigger brother” instead of an equal partner. These concerns must be acknowledged and not dismissed. At the same time, we must also recognize the many benefits Bangladesh receives from cooperation with India—in trade, defense, disaster relief, education, and infrastructure.
Instead of focusing on “exploitation”, the future should be built on “equal partnership”, mutual benefit, and respect for sovereignty. Only then can the two nations grow peacefully and collaboratively in an increasingly competitive world.
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