In a recent geopolitical discourse, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma issued a stern warning to Bangladesh, highlighting the strategic vulnerabilities within its own territory. This statement comes in response to comments made by Bangladesh’s interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, regarding India’s Siliguri Corridor, commonly referred to as the “Chicken’s Neck.”
Understanding the Siliguri Corridor
The Siliguri Corridor is a narrow stretch of land, approximately 20 kilometers wide at its narrowest point, that connects India’s northeastern states to the rest of the country. Flanked by Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh, this corridor is of immense strategic importance, serving as the lifeline for transportation, communication, and defense logistics to the northeastern region.
Bangladesh’s Strategic Chokepoints
In his remarks, CM Sarma pointed out that Bangladesh possesses two narrow corridors that are equally, if not more, vulnerable:@EconomicTimes+1Daijiworld+1
- Rangpur Corridor: Located between Meghalaya’s South West Garo Hills and South Dinajpur in West Bengal, this corridor stretches about 90 kilometers. It connects Bangladesh’s Rangpur division to the rest of the country. Disruption here could isolate the northern part of Bangladesh, severely impacting internal connectivity.Firstpost+1assamnews.com+1
- Chittagong Corridor: This corridor, spanning approximately 28 kilometers, lies between South Tripura and the Bay of Bengal. It connects Bangladesh’s economic hub, Chittagong, to its political capital, Dhaka. Given its narrowness, any obstruction could severely impact Bangladesh’s economic activities, considering Chittagong handles over 90% of the country’s external trade.
Sarma emphasized that any threat to India’s Siliguri Corridor would be met with reciprocal actions targeting these vulnerable points in Bangladesh.
Catalyst for the Exchange
The tension escalated following remarks by Muhammad Yunus during his visit to China, where he described India’s northeastern states as “landlocked” and positioned Bangladesh as their “guardian of ocean access.” He also encouraged China to expand its economic influence in the region. These statements were perceived as provocative by Indian officials, prompting Sarma’s response.
Strategic Implications
Sarma’s comments serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness and mutual dependencies in the region. By highlighting Bangladesh’s own strategic chokepoints, he emphasized the importance of maintaining peaceful and cooperative relations. His remarks also underscore India’s commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity and the well-being of its northeastern states.
The Role of External Influences
The involvement of external powers, particularly China’s growing presence in South Asia, adds another layer of complexity to the situation. Reports of China assisting Bangladesh in reviving a dormant World War II-era airbase at Lalmonirhat, near the Indo-Bangladesh border close to Siliguri, have raised concerns in India. Such developments necessitate vigilant monitoring and proactive diplomacy to ensure regional stability.@EconomicTimes
Historical Context
CM Sarma also criticized former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi for mismanaging the strategic aftermath of India’s 1971 victory over Pakistan, which led to the creation of Bangladesh. He argued that while the Indian military achieved a decisive win, the political leadership failed to leverage this success for long-term strategic benefits. Sarma highlighted the transformation of Bangladesh from a secular state to an Islamic one, citing the decrease in the Hindu population and the rise of political Islam. He also pointed to the vulnerabilities of the Siliguri corridor, lack of access to the Chittagong Port, and unchecked illegal immigration from Bangladesh as critical oversights that have had enduring geopolitical consequences.
Conclusion
The recent exchange between Assam’s Chief Minister and Bangladesh’s interim leader highlights the intricate dynamics of regional geopolitics. As nations navigate these complexities, prioritizing diplomacy, mutual respect, and cooperation remains crucial. By acknowledging each other’s concerns and working together, India and Bangladesh can ensure a stable and prosperous future for their citizens.