By Bharat Global Time Staff | May 25, 2025
Guwahati: A recent remark by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has sparked intense debate in strategic and political circles, raising questions about India’s northeast posture and its implications for neighboring Bangladesh’s strategic vulnerability, commonly referred to as the “Chicken’s Neck.”
Speaking at a regional development conference in Guwahati, CM Sarma emphasized the need to bolster infrastructure and security along Assam’s borders, particularly near the Indo-Bangladesh frontier. While his speech largely focused on internal connectivity, defense analysts and media commentators have drawn attention to the implied strategic leverage India holds over a narrow Bangladeshi corridor close to the Indian state of Assam.
“We are not just focusing on roads and bridges. We are thinking 20 years ahead—about security, demographics, and the geopolitical future of this region,” Sarma stated, without naming Bangladesh directly.
What Is the “Chicken’s Neck”?
The term “Chicken’s Neck” often refers to a narrow strip of land in northwestern Bangladesh near the Indian border, running adjacent to India’s Siliguri Corridor (also dubbed India’s own “Chicken’s Neck”). This area connects India’s mainland to its northeastern states and is considered a critical strategic zone.
In recent years, Bangladesh has invested heavily in developing this zone, which is crucial for both domestic mobility and military logistics. The proximity of this corridor to Indian territory makes it a sensitive subject in bilateral relations.
Strategic Implications or Overblown Speculation?
While CM Sarma’s remarks did not include any direct military references, some online commentators and regional media outlets have sensationalized his speech as a veiled warning or strategic assertion. Defense experts, however, urge caution.
“There’s no official doctrine or plan to ‘attack’ Bangladesh or its corridors,” said retired Lt. Gen. Prakash Sinha. “But India does maintain strategic awareness of vulnerabilities in the region, just as any nation would.”
Bangladesh Reacts Calmly
There has been no official reaction from Dhaka regarding Sarma’s comments. However, diplomatic sources in the region suggest that Bangladesh is monitoring the developments closely. India and Bangladesh have enjoyed relatively stable ties in recent years, especially in the fields of trade, security cooperation, and border management.
Border Development and Security: The Real Agenda?
Many believe the Assam CM’s focus is on tackling cross-border infiltration, enhancing border infrastructure, and curbing illegal trade—not on asserting control over foreign territory.
“There’s no aggression in his statement—only ambition,” said Dr. Sangeeta Das, a professor of international relations at Gauhati University. “However, political language in such sensitive regions must be carefully calibrated.”
Conclusion
While the idea of India “attacking” Bangladesh’s strategic corridor makes for a sensational headline, current facts suggest a more grounded reality: the Assam Chief Minister is focused on asserting India’s long-term regional strategy and securing the Northeast. Still, his remarks are a reminder of the delicate geopolitical dynamics between the two neighbors.
Disclaimer: Bharat Global Time urges its readers to distinguish between strategic commentary and actual military policy. India and Bangladesh remain committed to peace and mutual cooperation in the subcontinent.
