Bangladesh is at the crossroads. Despite a wonderful pace of growth over the last two decades that showed sustainable potential in the economy, healthcare, education, and trade, the nation has been struggling with corruption, social inequality, and, most visibly, political instability coupled with instances of religious radicalization.
Bangladesh is now being governed by a transition care-taker government after relentless protests in last summer, that turned into violent rallies and dislodged Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her Awami League Party from office unceremoniously. She had to leave the country and seek temporary stay in India.
The current caretaker government in Bangladesh, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, is encountering massive challenges and under-performing. A Protest, which became popular as “Second liberation Movement” and dislocated the ruling party from power, is gradually losing the focus, due to failure in delivering the high hopes associated with the movement.
Top 5 Indicators of a Failing Transition Government
Inflation in Bangladesh has surged to nearly 10%, the highest since 2011, necessitating urgent measures to stabilize the fragile fiscal conditions. This economic strain has given rise to social inequality and unemployment, creating a situation that a temporary government struggles to manage. Additionally, the caretaker government inherited a deeply entrenched political corruption problem. According to Transparency International, Bangladesh ranks 146th out of 180 countries, highlighting pervasive corrupt practices within its political circles.
The country is also facing severe political violence, internal security issues, and regional tensions. Recent reports indicate over 300 deaths and more than 10,000 arrests due to ongoing violence. Although the Bangladesh Army is currently aiding the caretaker government, there is a persistent fear of a military takeover of the governance apparatus.
Lack of Vision:
The transition government has been criticized for its lack of a clear and inclusive vision for the future. While the appointment of Muhammad Yunus brought hope, the administration has struggled to bring in a comprehensive plan for political and economic reforms. This lack of direction is causing lack of trust in the country and hindering progress.
Bangladesh is undoubtedly on the brink of change, but the geopolitical implications are pivoted on the nature of this transformation. If the shift takes on an anti-Hindu or other communal forms, it could severely damage Bangladesh’s standing in South Asia. With over 4,000 kilometres of shared border with India, New Delhi is particularly concerned about the potential for increased illegal migration from Bangladesh for various reasons. This situation makes India sensitive and vigilant about the developments in its neighbouring country.
The caretaker government in Bangladesh must prioritize fostering political harmony, streamlining the economy, addressing unemployment, and ensuring safe and fair elections, rather than pursuing narrow-minded policies. It is crucial for Bangladesh to engage with India in a positive and inclusive manner, stabilize the current volatile environment, and uphold democratic principles. Although the interim government has largely fallen short in these areas, there remains global hope that Bangladesh will successfully pass through this critical juncture.