If the growth of Islamic extremism and terrorism in Bangladesh is a threat to Indian security, then the presence of China with which India’s interests have the potential to clash is also of security concern.
China's influence in South Asia has significantly grown over the years, and in particular Bangladeshi-Chinese relations are now robust and very comprehensive. This is in contrast to Bangladeshi-Indian relations, which are extremely uneven. While the latter are substantial and not totally negative, in comparison to Bangladeshi-Chinese relations they are riddled with controversies. How does one explain this contrast, especially when China lacks the historic-cultural advantages and linkages that India has with Bangladesh?
Bangladesh faces a shortage of electric power and is planning to meet the shortfall by setting up nuclear power plants. Significantly, this development has occurred at a time when the country is being ruled by a caretaker government with the backing of the military. The military in Bangladesh is trying to carve out a permanent place for itself in governance by creating a National Security Council.
Chinese Puzzle in India-Bangladesh Relations
If the growth of Islamic extremism and terrorism in Bangladesh is a threat to Indian security, then the presence of China with which India’s interests have the potential to clash is also of security concern.