27-May-2025 Daily Answer Writing
Q1) Critically examine the geopolitical implications of Bangladesh’s internal divide over the proposed Myanmar corridor. How does this impact India’s strategic and security interests in the region?
(GS Paper 2, 15 Marks, 250 Words)
Answer:
The emerging rift between the Bangladesh Army and the interim civilian government over a proposed humanitarian corridor to Myanmar’s Rakhine province exposes deeper fault lines in South Asian geopolitics. While the government is reportedly engaging with international actors to support the corridor, the armed forces have rejected any plan that could compromise national sovereignty or security.
Geopolitical Implications:
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Internal Civil-Military Tensions: The Bangladesh Army’s public opposition weakens policy coherence and may impact electoral stability ahead of national polls.
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China’s Possible Role: Any corridor backed by China (or the US) could recalibrate strategic alignments in the Bay of Bengal region, affecting India’s Act East policy.
Impact on India:
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Security Concerns: The corridor may enhance transit routes used for smuggling arms and narcotics through the Arakan region, spilling over into India’s northeast.
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Strategic Positioning: India has supported Bangladesh’s stability as a counterweight to Chinese influence. An unstable Dhaka may disrupt connectivity projects like BIMSTEC or BBIN.
Way Forward for India:
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Enhance intelligence coordination with both Bangladesh military and civilian actors.
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Push for regional frameworks through SAARC or BIMSTEC to manage humanitarian diplomacy with transparency.
Conclusion:
The corridor debate reflects how domestic fault lines in a neighboring country can have transboundary implications. India must maintain strategic neutrality while reinforcing democratic processes and regional stability.
Read More – 26 May 2025 : Daily Answer Writing
