India Faces Strategic Challenge in Bangladesh as Political Shift Deepens, Says Parliamentary Panel

India faces a major strategic challenge in Bangladesh after rapid political change in Dhaka. A new report from a Parliamentary panel warned that India may lose influence if it does not act fast. The report was released in New Delhi on December 18, 2025. The main keyword in this headline is “India Bangladesh strategic challenge.”

The panel said the shift began after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government in August 2024. It said Bangladesh now shows sharp political changes driven by youth groups, new parties, and renewed influence from rival powers.

India Bangladesh Strategic Challenge Detailed in Parliamentary Report

The panel reviewed events from the past two years. It said the change is the most serious for India since the 1971 Liberation War. According to Reuters, the committee noted that the rise of new nationalist groups and the return of Islamist parties have created a new balance in Dhaka.

The report said the National Citizen Party, formed by student activists, is now a key force. It also said Jamaat-e-Islami has gained back its registration. These shifts have raised concern about future elections.

The panel said India made the right call by giving refuge to Sheikh Hasina. But it warned that she should not use India as a base for political actions. Officials told the panel that Hasina uses only her personal devices and has no political platform in India.

The panel added that Bangladesh’s interim government banned Awami League activity. It said this ban could hurt the fairness of the February 2026 election. It also warned that India must prepare for the Ganga Water Treaty renewal due in December 2026.

Impact on India’s Regional Position and Next Steps

The report said India may lose strategic space if it does not adjust its policy. It warned that China and Pakistan are gaining influence. The shift could reshape ties that have stayed stable for more than a decade.

The panel urged the government to begin talks with Dhaka soon. It said the delay in communication on the water treaty may create problems next year. It also said India must engage all political sides in Bangladesh.

The analysis stressed that India needs a long-term plan. It said the region is at a turning point and India must act with care. The panel said the strategic challenge is subtle but serious.

India must respond with clear steps as the India Bangladesh strategic challenge grows. The coming year may shape the region for a long time. India’s choices now will decide its role in Dhaka.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the India Bangladesh strategic challenge?

It is the shift in Bangladesh’s politics that may reduce India’s influence. It includes new parties, youth movements, and rival powers gaining ground. The Parliamentary panel warned India to act fast.

Q2: Why did the panel call it the biggest challenge since 1971?

The panel said the political change is deep and long-term. It compared the scale of impact to past historic events. It said the risk comes from losing space, not from conflict.

Q3: What role does the fall of the Hasina government play?

Her exit in 2024 opened space for new groups. Student activists and Islamists gained influence. This shift changed the political map.

Q4: Why is the Ganga Water Treaty mentioned?

The treaty ends in 2026 and must be renewed. The panel said talks with Bangladesh should start soon. Delay may cause tension.

Q5: Why is India sheltering Sheikh Hasina?

India gave refuge after her government fell. She now faces a death sentence in Bangladesh. India said she is not allowed to do political work from its soil.