Fri Dec 13 18:44:27 UTC 2024: ## Former Minister Aiyar Criticizes India’s Hostile Relations with Neighbors

**Chennai, December 14, 2024** – Former Union Minister Mani Shankar Aiyar has expressed deep concern over India’s strained relationships with its neighboring countries, characterizing them as “very hostile.” Speaking at a Chennai event, Aiyar, a former diplomat, warned that these tensions pose a significant risk to India’s security.

Aiyar criticized India’s foreign policy approach, citing specific examples. He pointed to the strained relationship with Bangladesh, noting that India’s focus on the now-ousted Sheikh Hasina has left it with a government it is unwilling to cooperate with. He questioned the focus on alleged atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh, suggesting that investigations by Bangladeshi media outlets indicate that many of these incidents stemmed from the victims’ support for the ruling Awami League, rather than solely their religious affiliation.

Aiyar also highlighted tense relations with other neighbors. He described Sri Lankan President Anura Dissanayake as a “former terrorist” despite his current reconciliation with Tamil groups. He noted that the Maldives, under a government with an “India Out” slogan, has sought closer ties with Turkey and China. India’s relationship with Myanmar is strained due to the current military regime, while relations with Bhutan are tense beneath the surface, Aiyar said, primarily due to India’s perceived reluctance to allow Bhutan to resolve border disputes with China. He added that India maintains a “very bad relationship” with Nepal, citing the cancellation of a planned rally by Prime Minister Modi in 2014 and India’s interference in Nepal’s constitutional process. Finally, Aiyar lamented the deeply troubled relationship with Pakistan, urging for improved ties.

Aiyar concluded by emphasizing the irony of the strong bonds between Indians and Pakistanis in diaspora communities, contrasting it sharply with the hostility between the two nations. He called for a significant shift in India’s foreign policy to improve relations with its neighbors.

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