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South Asian Update
South Asian Update

South Asia

India should prioritize Bangladeshi people, not political party: Shashi 

 Published: 13:03, 12 February 2025

India should prioritize Bangladeshi people, not political party: Shashi 

Indian National Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has emphasized that India’s focus should be on the well-being of the Bangladeshi people rather than aligning with any specific political party.

Speaking at the Foreign Correspondents' Club (FCC) during a book launch event, Tharoor, who also chairs the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, stressed the importance of maintaining a people-centric approach in India's engagement with Bangladesh. He cautioned against creating the perception that New Delhi favors a particular party or community, according to a PTI report.
Tharoor also highlighted Bangladesh’s strategic significance, warning that the country could become a "soft underbelly" for India if a hostile administration were to assume power. He underlined the need for India to closely monitor developments in its neighboring country.
During the session, he addressed various topics, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States, parliamentary democracy, and India's relations with Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Responding to a question about Bangladesh, Tharoor reiterated the necessity of vigilance, stating that developments there have direct implications for India due to the two nations' close geographical and historical ties.
"I don't believe the current interim government can be considered hostile," he remarked, while also acknowledging the need for caution.
When asked about reports of growing ties between Dhaka and Islamabad, Tharoor underscored the potential risks of instability in Bangladesh, stating that any major disruption could pose security concerns for India.

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