China Enters Bangladesh After Pakistan, Airbase Plans on Cards! Are Things Hotting Up For India?

Tensions are rising in South Asia as reports claim that China is planning to build an airbase in northern Bangladesh, dangerously close to India’s sensitive northeast region. The proposed site is Lalmonirhat, not far from the ‘Chicken’s Neck’—a narrow stretch of land that connects India’s northeast to the mainland. This region is of extreme strategic importance to India, and the idea of a Chinese airbase in Bangladesh has triggered serious concerns in New Delhi. Let’s break down the situation and explore what this means for India.

Why Is China Building an Airbase in Bangladesh?

According to media reports, China is set to begin construction of the airfield by October. The most troubling aspect is its location—very close to India's Siliguri Corridor, also known as the Chicken’s Neck. This narrow stretch is India's only land link to its northeastern states. A threat here can cut off the entire region in case of a conflict.

The airbase may seem like just another infrastructure project, but if built by China, it becomes a military and intelligence asset at India’s doorstep. India’s defence experts believe it could serve surveillance or military purposes, giving Beijing a clear view of India’s troop movements in the northeast.

Is Muhammad Yunus Helping China and Pakistan Get Closer to Bangladesh?

The controversy deepened after Bangladesh’s Muhammad Yunus visited China. During his speech in Beijing, Yunus made a strange remark. He called India’s northeast “landlocked” and said Bangladesh was the “only guardian of the ocean” for the region.

This raised eyebrows in India. Soon after, reports of the Chinese airbase in Bangladesh began circulating. Many believe the two are connected.

According to media reprots, a Pakistani construction company is expected to be the subcontractor for this Chinese airbase. This means China could plan and fund it and Pakistan could build it—forming a potential China-Pakistan-Bangladesh nexus right next to India.

Has PM Modi Responded to the Growing Bangladesh-China Ties?

Recently, PM Modi met Muhammad Yunus in a high-level meeting. However, Bangladesh’s press release after the meeting included misleading claims about the conversation, which India dismissed as “politically motivated.” The incident further proves that New Delhi may no longer be able to trust Dhaka under Yunus's leadership.

What Role Does the Teesta River Project Play in This Strategic Game?

Another key issue is the Teesta River conservation project. India had earlier agreed to work with Bangladesh to conserve and manage the river, hoping to keep China away from the sensitive northeast border. But now, Yunus is reportedly inviting China to fund and develop the same project—again, in an area dangerously close to India.

This indicates a shift not just in foreign policy but also in Bangladesh's approach to regional balance. It’s no longer about partnership—it’s turning into a rivalry.

Can India Counter the Chinese Airbase in Bangladesh and Secure Its Borders?

India now faces a dual challenge: securing its borders and maintaining regional diplomatic influence. The Indian military already has a strong presence in the northeast, but it must now factor in this potential Chinese airbase in Bangladesh.