Panel: Bangladesh India's Biggest Challenge Since 1971 Amid China-Pak Influence

• A Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs warns Bangladesh is India's most serious strategic challenge since 1971.
• Concerns include political instability, the return of Islamist forces, and expanding influence of China and Pakistan in Dhaka.
• The challenge is complex and long-term, not military, stemming from Bangladesh's political transition and changing external alignments.
• Weakening Awami League dominance and low voter turnout in January 2024 elections raise questions about legitimacy.
• The panel questioned the Ministry of External Affairs on missed warning signs despite continuous monitoring of the situation.

Why It Matters: Bangladesh's evolving politics and growing external dependencies pose a complex, long-term strategic challenge for India.