Sat Mar 22 18:11:11 UTC 2025: ## India Acknowledges Foreknowledge of Bangladesh Crisis, Highlights China as Competitor, Not Adversary
**New Delhi, March 22, 2025** – India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, revealed to the Consultative Committee on External Affairs that India was aware of growing anti-government sentiment in Bangladesh before the violent overthrow of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government last August. However, he stated India’s influence over Ms. Hasina was limited to “advice,” hindering more direct intervention.
Mr. Jaishankar’s briefing touched upon several key regional issues. He confirmed India’s engagement with Bangladesh’s interim government, including a visit by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri in December 2024. A potential meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Muhammad Yunus, during the upcoming BIMSTEC summit remains unconfirmed. Yunus’s upcoming visit to China, where several agreements are expected to be signed, was also noted.
The Minister emphasized the role of “external actors” in the Bangladeshi crisis, classifying China as a “competitor” rather than an “adversary.” Discussions also covered the ongoing Myanmar civil war and its impact on India’s northeastern states, as well as the state of border infrastructure preparedness.
Regarding the future of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), Mr. Jaishankar indicated that its suspension is not permanent, suggesting a possible revival. The meeting also addressed concerns about China’s growing influence in the region, prompting discussions on India’s strategy for the next decade to counter this influence in countries like the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal. Mr. Jaishankar’s briefing was described by a participating MP as “forthcoming” and comprehensive.
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