Bangladesh national elections: Sheikh Hasina, other political contenders' approach towards India — Why it matters?

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excellent state of bilateral relations, based on deep historical and fraternal ties and shared values of democracy and pluralism," a statement by the government had said after the state visit of Hasina to India in 2022. Bangladesh shares border with India's West Bengal (2216.7 km), Assam (263 km), Meghalaya (443), Tripura (856) and Mizoram (318 km) Sharing a border with Bangladesh makes the country utterly important for India which faces challenges of cross-border terrorism, national security, migration and trade.

Here's how Bangladesh is important to India: As Sheikh Hasina came into power in Bangladesh, she helped the India's security burden by clamping down on insurgents, terrorists, and separatists. According to Eurasia review, Bangladesh "maintained close cooperation with India in terms of intelligence sharing and security matters".

Indian had also entered an Extradition Treaty with Bangladesh in January 2013 (during Hasina's rule) to address the security concerns of each other and strengthening mutual trust. During the tenure of previous Bangladesh government led by Khaleda Zia, India had faced challenges on the terrorism front.

Indian had said in its Annual Report 2004-2005 that "India has from time to time, expressed concern" over the activities of the terrorist groups operating from "the territory of Bangladesh through diplomatic channels, as also in the bilateral meetings between India and Bangladesh." However, Bangladesh had then denied harbouring "Indian insurgent groups" on its soil. ALSO READ: India and Bangladesh boost defence ties at fifth annual dialogue in Dhaka Illegal migration is another challenges along the India-Bangladesh border.