In a development that has sparked concerns in the region, a Dhaka University Professor, Shahiduzzaman, has called for a nuclear treaty between Bangladesh and Pakistan as a means to counter India's perceived threat. This proposal comes amidst rising anti-India sentiment in Bangladesh following the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government.
Professor Shahiduzzaman, known for his pro-Pakistan views, has suggested that Bangladesh could deploy Ghauri missiles in North Bengal to deter any aggressive actions from India. He has also called for Bangladesh to become "nuclear-capable" with the technical assistance of Pakistan, emphasizing Pakistan as Bangladesh's most trusted security partner.
While advocating for a tilt towards Pakistan, he alleges that India intends to annex parts of Bangladesh and incorporate them into its northeastern states. He believes that a nuclear treaty with Pakistan and acquiring Pakistani missiles is crucial to thwarting this perceived threat.
The Professor made these remarks while addressing military officials at a seminar organized by retired military officers, further underscoring the growing pro-Pakistan and anti-India sentiment among certain sections of Bangladeshi society.
Critics argue that such a move would destabilize the region and increase the risk of nuclear proliferation. Bangladesh's pursuit of a nuclear deterrent is likely to face opposition from the international community, particularly the United States and its allies.
The proposal has raised eyebrows as it comes from a Professor known for his ties to the Pakistan-backed Jamaat-e-Islami party, which has a history of advocating for closer ties with Pakistan.
While Professor Shahiduzzaman's proposal has attracted attention, it remains to be seen whether the new Bangladeshi government will consider pursuing a nuclear treaty with Pakistan. The country's foreign policy priorities and the prevailing political climate will play a crucial role in determining the feasibility of such a move.
