The Sheikh Hasina factor in India and Bangladesh’s ties

The article discusses the implications of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's virtual media interaction from India, where she has been living in exile for two years. Her statements, targeting the incumbent BNP government in Bangladesh, have caused diplomatic acrimony between Dhaka and New Delhi. Bangladesh views India's permission for the event as a misstep, reinforcing beliefs of India being pro-Awami League and potentially jeopardizing efforts to repair bilateral ties. India, while officially clarifying non-involvement, is seen to be using Hasina's presence as diplomatic leverage in negotiations on various bilateral issues like water treaties (Ganga, Teesta), illegal immigration, and trade. The situation highlights India's complex balancing act in maintaining a robust relationship with Bangladesh, which is crucial for its North-Eastern states' connectivity and internal security.