Why Bangladesh Hindus and Liberals Say They Feel Let Down by India

A growing section of Hindus and liberal voices in Bangladesh are expressing disappointment with India, arguing that New Delhi’s recent diplomatic posture has not fully aligned with their expectations during politically sensitive times.

The sentiment reflects a complex mix of domestic developments in Bangladesh and evolving regional strategies pursued by India.

Expectations from a Historical Partner

India and Bangladesh share deep historical ties, dating back to the 1971 Liberation War. Many minority groups and secular activists in Bangladesh have traditionally viewed India as a moral and political supporter of pluralism in the region.

However, recent political shifts and diplomatic calculations have led some to question whether India’s approach is now guided more by strategic interests than ideological solidarity.

Concerns Over Minority Protection

Bangladesh’s Hindu community, a religious minority, has periodically raised concerns about security, representation, and communal tensions. In moments of unrest, expectations often rise that India will adopt a stronger public stance.

Critics argue that New Delhi has preferred measured diplomatic engagement rather than overt intervention or public criticism, leading to perceptions of silence or distance.

Realpolitik vs. Rhetoric

Foreign policy experts note that India’s engagement with Bangladesh has increasingly focused on trade, connectivity, border management, and regional stability. Maintaining strong government-to-government ties is seen as crucial for strategic cooperation in South Asia.

This pragmatic approach, however, may not always resonate with activists and liberal groups who seek vocal advocacy on human rights and minority protections.

The Political Balancing Act

India’s leadership faces the challenge of balancing domestic political narratives with regional diplomacy. Publicly criticizing Dhaka could strain bilateral relations, while remaining cautious risks alienating sections of Bangladeshi society that once saw India as a consistent ally.

Analysts suggest that such tensions are common in relationships shaped by both shared history and evolving geopolitical priorities.

Broader Regional Context

South Asia’s political landscape is undergoing rapid transformation, influenced by economic pressures, global power competition, and domestic political shifts. In this environment, diplomatic choices often reflect long-term strategic considerations.

For Bangladesh’s Hindu and liberal communities, however, expectations are rooted in shared cultural, historical, and ideological bonds that transcend pure geopolitics.

The Bottom Line

The sense of disappointment among some Bangladeshi Hindus and liberals highlights the delicate balance between principle and pragmatism in foreign policy. As India navigates complex regional dynamics, perceptions of support or the lack of it continue to shape public opinion across borders.