Speculation Surrounding Bangladesh’s Invitation to China and Pakistan
There have been reports and discussions suggesting that Bangladesh, under its interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, may have invited China and Pakistan to collaborate on constructing an airbase in Lalmonirhat, a district in northern Bangladesh near the strategically sensitive Siliguri Corridor, often referred to as the “Chicken’s Neck” of India. This narrow strip of land in West Bengal connects India’s northeastern states to the rest of the country and is bordered by Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and China’s Chumbi Valley, making it a critical geopolitical chokepoint.
Yunus’s Diplomatic Moves and Strategic Implications
The speculation stems from Yunus’s recent diplomatic engagements, including a visit to China in late March 2025, where he met with President Xi Jinping and emphasized Bangladesh’s strategic position as a gateway to the “landlocked” northeastern states of India. Some sources claim that discussions about an airbase in Lalmonirhat, approximately 160 kilometers from the Chicken’s Neck, included potential Chinese technical assistance and Pakistani involvement, possibly as subcontractors. This has raised concerns in India about a possible Bangladesh-China-Pakistan nexus that could threaten the security of the Siliguri Corridor, especially given its proximity—only about 120 kilometers from India’s Hasimara Air Force Station and roughly 200 kilometers from Kolkata.
Lack of Official Confirmation and Historical Context
However, these claims remain unverified by official statements from the Bangladeshi, Chinese, or Pakistani governments as of April 6, 2025. Past rumors about similar plans, such as a 2024 claim of a Chinese-assisted airbase in Lalmonirhat, were debunked by fact-checkers like Rumor Scanner, which found no credible evidence at the time. Current reports similarly lack concrete documentation, relying instead on sources like opinion pieces and intelligence leaks, which suggest construction could begin as early as October 2025. Without official confirmation, the situation remains speculative.
India’s Military Response and Regional Tensions
India has responded to such regional developments by bolstering its defenses around the Chicken’s Neck, deploying advanced assets like Rafale jets, BrahMos missiles, and S-400 missile systems to deter potential threats. The growing ties between Bangladesh, China, and Pakistan—evidenced by military exchanges, such as Bangladesh Air Force officers training in Pakistan for JF-17 jets (co-developed with China)—add to the tension, but no definitive evidence yet supports the airbase claim. The situation warrants close monitoring as it could significantly impact regional security dynamics if substantiated.
By BHARAT GLOBAL TIME
