Give Dhaka more room to manoeuvre: India’s next Bangladesh gambit

Bangladesh's foreign ministry is sticking to its demand for a 'propitious environment' for PM Tarique Rahman's visit to New Delhi. Dinesh Trivedi, India's high commissioner to Bangladesh, has stressed on engagement and dialogue, and common interests of 'aspirant' Bangladesh and India. This segues well with Rahman's 'Bangladesh First' approach, besides assurances from Narendra Modi of a 'memorable' visit.

Yet, Dhaka seems to be getting cold feet, even as Rahman considers a trip to Saudi Arabia, and Bangladesh weighs its engagement with the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement. Instead of reacting, New Delhi must consider the longer horizon and its vision for the region and its bilateral ties with Dhaka.

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The obvious friction point is the stand-off over former PM Sheikh Hasina's extradition, her virtual press conference from Delhi an added irritant. Rahman is aware of the complexities of the issue. His reactions are a function of his limited manoeuvring space, particularly the continuing political prominence of Islamists in Bangladesh.

BNP has historically allied with Jamaat-e-Islami, while Rahman has sought to limit its hold and influence. Rahman must realise that this is something only a strong relationship with India can help deliver.

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India has made some real moves: ministerial visits, resumption of visa services, and appointment of Trivedi. His selection - a West Bengal politician fluent in Bengali - is a signal of the political priority attached to the relationship. India now needs to take a bolder gambit. A fair Teesta water-sharing agreement, supported by a line of credit, along with expanded diesel supplies and power exports, would give Rahman tangible wins to take home - wins that could trump the prickly Hasina extradition issue.