The emergence of flags associated with banned terrorist organizations in Dhaka raises concerns as India grapples with ongoing tensions with Pakistan on its western border. These developments are taking place amid claims of growing Islamic extremism and closer ties between Bangladesh and Pakistan.
Recent reports indicate a worrying trend of increasing extremist activities in Bangladesh. Flags that are suspected to be associated with ISIS have been spotted at protest rallies, raising alarm among Indian authorities and leaders of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League. Assam's Chief Minister has expressed concern about Bangladesh's "hobnobbing" with Pakistan, further intensifying the unease.
Adding to the complexity, Pakistan's foreign minister has seemingly justified terrorist acts against India, even referring to militants involved in a deadly attack as "freedom fighters". These remarks have surfaced around the same time as a postponed visit to Dhaka by the Pakistani foreign minister.
These events follow a period of significant political change in Bangladesh, specifically after Sheikh Hasina's departure to Delhi. This shift has allegedly resulted in a warmer relationship between Dhaka and Islamabad, leading to increased security concerns for India's eastern front. Intelligence reports suggest that groups like Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT), believed to be an Al-Qaeda affiliate, have been actively recruiting in India. ABT was banned by Bangladesh, with India, the UK, and the US following suit.
Furthermore, there have been reports of arrests of terror suspects with links to Bangladesh in various Indian states. One suspect arrested in West Bengal was allegedly associated with Tehreek-ul-Mujahideen, an organization with the stated goal of merging Jammu and Kashmir with Pakistan.
A retired Bangladeshi general's suggestion to occupy India's northeastern states amid India-Pakistan tensions has further fueled regional unease. While the Bangladeshi government has distanced itself from these remarks, they have added to the existing concerns.
These developments suggest a potentially destabilizing geopolitical shift in the region, with implications for India's security. The situation is further complicated by claims that the current regime in Bangladesh has been releasing convicted Islamist militants and violent extremists. Concerns remain about the possibility of these released individuals re-engaging in extremist activities.