Turkey’s Growing Influence in Bangladesh Raises Alarm Over ‘Greater Bangladesh’ Map
Islamist Group Promotes Controversial Map
A new Islamist group called ‘Saltanat-e-Bangla’, believed to be supported by a Turkish NGO, has emerged in Dhaka, Bangladesh. This group has reportedly displayed a ‘Greater Bangladesh’ map, showing parts of India and Myanmar as part of an expanded Bangladeshi territory.
The map includes Myanmar’s Arakan State and Indian states like Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and the entire Northeast region. It has appeared in university halls across Dhaka, in places where students and youth are often present.
Military and NGO Involvement Increasing
Since Md Yunus became the head of government in Bangladesh last year, Turkey has increased its military and NGO involvement in the country. Reports say Turkey has offered military supplies to Bangladesh and its NGOs—closely linked to Turkey’s ruling party—have become more active.
There are also signs that Pakistan is helping bring Turkey and Bangladesh closer, especially since August last year.
Concerns Over Radical Influence
Experts are now concerned about the influence of the Muslim Brotherhood on Islamist groups in Bangladesh. They also say that the activities of Turkish NGOs in the country must be carefully monitored, as they may be trying to shape the political and religious atmosphere in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh’s Remarks on India’s Northeast
In March, the Bangladeshi government reached out to China for economic partnerships. During a visit to Beijing, Md Yunus signed nine agreements with Chinese President Xi Jinping. During this visit, he commented that India’s Northeast is landlocked and could benefit from trade access through Bangladesh.
This remark sparked debate, as it hinted at strategic interest in India’s eastern region. (Also read: Gujarat Police Bust Spy App Developer Linked to ISI)
Tensions in India-Bangladesh Relations
India-Bangladesh relations have become strained recently. One reason is the Yunus government’s failure to stop attacks on minorities, especially Hindus. Another reason is rising economic competition between the two countries, especially in the textile sector.
India Imposes Trade Restrictions
On May 17, India restricted imports worth $770 million from Bangladesh. This covers about 42% of total bilateral imports. Key products affected include garments, processed food, and plastic goods, which are now restricted to certain sea ports or banned from land routes.
Bangladesh sends over $700 million in garments to India every year, and this move is expected to impact trade significantly.
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