ISI in Bangladesh: The political landscape in South Asia is shifting and Pakistan appears eager to rekindle ties with Bangladesh. However, Islamabad's confidence in swaying Dhaka, particularly with the involvement of ISI in Bangladesh, seems misplaced. History has repeatedly shown Pakistan’s inability to sustain alliances, especially when faced with its own internal struggles and past military failures.
India, mindful of these developments, has taken a firm stance. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has assured that the situation is under close watch, emphasising that India is ready to take necessary action to safeguard its security and regional stability. Pakistan, on the other hand, seems to have forgotten the lessons of its 1971 debacle, when it suffered a crushing defeat and the creation of Bangladesh, as well as the humiliation of the Kargil conflict.
Pakistan's Engagement with Bangladesh
ISI’s Director-General of Analysis, Major General Shahid Amir, recently led a delegation to Bangladesh. This visit followed an earlier trip where Bangladeshi military officials engaged with the chiefs of Pakistan’s armed forces in Islamabad. These back-to-back meetings, underpinned by Pakistan’s strategic intent, have captured India’s attention and raised concerns about regional security.
The MEA, through spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, highlighted India’s vigilant approach to any activities in its neighborhood that might impact national security. While fostering positive relations with Bangladesh remains India’s priority, it has made clear that protecting its interests and ensuring stability come first.
1971 and Kargil: Painful Lessons Pakistan Chooses to Ignore
Pakistan’s growing involvement with Bangladesh through ISI raises questions about its ability to learn from history. The 1971 war, which resulted in the creation of Bangladesh, was a stark reminder of Pakistan’s failure to address its internal issues. Similarly, the Kargil War of 1999, where Pakistan suffered a diplomatic and military defeat, further exposed its miscalculations.
Despite these historical setbacks, Pakistan’s aspirations to influence Bangladesh echo its earlier overconfidence. Such moves may seem like an attempt to revive its waning regional presence but are unlikely to bear fruit given India’s readiness to act.
India's Border Fencing and Bangladesh’s Concerns
Another issue drawing attention is Bangladesh’s objection to India’s border fencing efforts. The MEA clarified that the fencing is not aimed at Bangladesh but rather at controlling illegal activities, including human trafficking and animal smuggling.
India Remains Alert and Prepared
While Pakistan appears optimistic about its growing camaraderie with Bangladesh, India has made it clear that it won’t let its guard down. With its history of defeats in 1971 and Kargil still fresh in memory, Pakistan’s recent ISI visit to Bangladesh may only result in further isolation. At the same time, Pakistan is grappling with a severe economic crisis, skyrocketing inflation, and a loss of public trust in its government, all of which hinder its ability to assert itself regionally.
India, on the other hand, stands firm, prioritising vigilance, regional stability and balanced diplomacy. The MEA has assured that any threats to national security will be met with decisive action.