India needs to keep a close eye on ongoing events in Bangladesh to ensure that, one, there is no ill-treatment of minorities and, two, there is no surge of illegal immigrants across an already very porous border. Despite the supposed hardline adopted by the Modi led NDA government over the past decade, the problem of illegal immigration has not been effectively dealt with. This has had many repercussions on the nation’s economy, as cheap immigrant labour has prevented rise in wages for working class Indians.
It must be made clear to the present dispensation in Bangladesh that mere expression of regret will not satisfy India. Unless there is visible action within a clear timeframe against those who attacked Hindus in every single case, there can be harsh consequences. This could include creation of an enclave in areas bordering India within Bangladesh where Hindus and other minorities may be summoned and protected. Also, if required, the necessary changes may be made in the CAA to provide members of these communities refuge in India.
Given that sending Bangladeshi immigrants back to their country would not just be difficult but also cruel, the government should identify such persons and provide them permits to work in India. Along with this, all such persons should be taken off the electoral rolls. So, while they may, out of choice, become part of the Indian economy, they will not be considered a threat to the nation. It would also allow them to freely visit their homes. Preference should be given to workers accompanied by their spouses.
These steps are required so that there is no misconception among the present rulers in Bangladesh that India is required by geo-strategic reasons to adopt a soft attitude towards them. It has become obvious that there is a significant section of society that is not only virulently anti-Indian but also fanatic in religious terms. Is it wise to provide support to such a society? It is time to suspend all development assistance being provided to that country, even if it includes projects for India’s benefit. A political cost-benefit analysis should be undertaken and only that which is considered absolutely necessary should be continued. The present news coming in that India’s security forces are preventing the entry of persecuted minorities goes against what the NDA government has claimed to stand for all this time. India’s response should send a clear message to Bangladesh that there are lines that cannot be crossed without severe repercussions.
