[🇧🇩-Land] Indian army---A long term threat for Bangladesh army.

[Saif]

Indian army is threat for all the armies who has an intension of conflict with India. After all, armies are kept to inflict threat to the enemies. India tries its best to maintain good relation with BD and we had those good relations as well. However, those radical elements with the help of foreign powers toppled the elected government and made PM to flee. Now a US puppet Muhhamad yunus is imposed as PM who seems to have surrendered radical elements of BD. If these elements become strong, they will certainly try some mischief with India and there is a strong possibility of armed conflict. In that case, Indian army will do what it is supposed to do. So yes, Indian army is certainly a threat of BD army particularly when a non friendly government in BD is in place.

Shouldn't Bangladesh invite China to establish a military base here to protect herself from hostile India? BJP is a Hindu fundamentalist political party influenced by RSS who openly declared Muslims as their enemies. BJP, an unfriendly government next door, is a security threat to Bangladesh and Bangladesh reserves the right to form a military alliance with China to safeguard her sovereignty.

 

[Saif]

When will BD will respect their own democracy? Unless you are fair, you can not complaint. respect is earned not demanded. You start killing Hindus. Your guys becomes violent towards the Indian embassy. Your mullahs threatens to cut Chicken neck , you have an intension to offer your land for anti Indian activities and you ask us to respect your sovereignly. So far as I know, India has done nothing which has shown any disrespect for the sovereignty of BD.

There was no democracy in Bangladesh when Hasina was in power. She grabbed state power by election engineering. She destroyed all the democratic institutions such as media, judiciary, and administration to remain in power ad infinitum. And stop poking your runny nose into Bangladesh's affairs.

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh is amid a serious security threat

After the student-people's uprising, the country entered a vacuum of law and order in absence of the police. Such a situation is certainly a matter of security concern for any society and country. But it is also important to realise that any country goes through a period of unrest, to an extent...

en.prothomalo.com

Interview: ANM Muniruzzaman
Bangladesh is amid a serious security threat

Maj Gen ANM Muniruzzaman (retd)

Maj Gen ANM Muniruzzaman (retd) is a security expert and president of Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS). In the aftermath of the mass uprising, the country's overall security structure is in disarray. In an interview with Prothom Alo's AKM Zakaria and Monoj Dey, he talks about the possible internal and external security threats faced by the country and the need to increase capacity and coordination in the area of national security.

Prothom Alo : After the student-people's uprising, the country was more or less bereft its police. Members of the police force had fled, abandoning the police stations and outposts. Things have improved. But the police are not back as they were. The police force is lacking both in morale and manpower. How serious is this in relation to the country's law and order situation and internal security?

ANM Muniruzzaman After the student-people's uprising, the country entered a vacuum of law and order in absence of the police. Such a situation is certainly a matter of security concern for any society and country. But it is also important to realise that any country goes through a period of unrest, to an extent, in a post-revolution period. In that sense, it must be said that Bangladesh fared much better than most countries. This is especially true in the first three days after Sheikh Hasina fled from the country on 5 August, when there was not only no police but also no government in place.

Even in such circumstances it is possible to maintain peace and stability in the country by deploying other forces. It has been a month since the overthrow and while the situation has improved considerably, we still remain at a risk where law and order is concerned. We must try to emerge from this as early as possible.

Prothom Alo : As a force, the police to a great extent have lost the confidence of the people, given the manner in which they were politicised and also the brutality and armed assault they unleashed to suppress the student-people's movement. How can this force be restructured? Many members of the police had not joined work. How can this vacuum be speedily filled?

ANM Muniruzzaman We are aware that it is not possible to run a state without the police. The police force therefore must be reconstituted. It must be restructured. A study must be carried out on the existing state of the police force. Based on this, reforms of the police force must be taken up. Firstly the police laws must be changed and updated. Also the police recruitment process must be made transparent and in keeping with the times. The police must be trained in such a matter that they are instilled with a sense of values. The rule of law must be established in running the force. As many of the police have fled and are not resuming duties, a shortfall in manpower has emerged. This vacuum must be filled as speedily as possible. If necessary, able soldiers who have retired from the army and other armed forces, as well as reservists, can be recruited to fill the deficit in the police force.

Prothom Alo : We have seen many top criminals have been released from prison. Arms have been looted from police stations and other places. What sort of threat can these incidents pose to the country's law and order and internal security?

During the movement, quite a few convicts broke out of several prisons in the country. Many of them were top terrors, some even convicted on charges of terrorism. I have seen in the newspapers that several top criminals have been released on bail from prison over the past few days. This is a serious threat to internal security of the country. They will have the propensity to get involved in all sorts of anti-social and illegal activities once they leave jail.

A considerable amount of arms and ammunition have also been looted from various police stations and prisons.

According to the latest updates, 1,885 missing arms still remain unrecovered. A large amount of ammunition also has not been recovered. From the media we have also learnt that some specialised weapons, ammunition and other communication equipment used by the Special Security Force or SSF, have been looted too. No one but this specialised force uses such equipment. This heightens the internal security threats multiple times over.

Overall, we are faced with a serious security threat. It is imperative to adopt effective measures to recover the missing arms, ammunition and other equipment.

Prothom Alo : Whether it is internal or external security threats, information and activities of the intelligence agencies is vital. During the past government, the intelligence agencies were used for party interests. In the present circumstances, how functional are the intelligence agencies and their activities? How do you see this situation in the perspective of national security?

ANM Muniruzzaman In any country of the world, the intelligence agencies play a vital role in internal and external security. Based on the information collected, collated and analysed by the agencies, the government gets advanced information on any security threats and can take action to prevent these in time. NSI is one of the major intelligence agencies of Bangladesh. Many of the NSI personnel did not return to their workplace after the fall of the government. As a result, the capacity of this agency has fallen considerably.

Also, given their controversial role during the past government, the other intelligence agencies like DGFI and SB are also facing a stiff challenge in the new circumstances. Work has come to a sort of standstill in these institutions. Steps must be taken so that our intelligence agencies can resume work as soon as possible. It would be most unwise to allow any sort of deficiencies to linger on in these agencies.

Prothom Alo : Sheikh Hasina's government fell in the face of the student-people's uprising. The last government remained in power by means of three controversial and one-sided elections and India quite openly played a role in keeping it ensconced in power. It looks like India did not take the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government very well. What would you say about that?

ANM Muniruzzaman After the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government, the policy India had followed over the past 16 years regarding Bangladesh was hit hard. In short, India's Bangladesh policy has failed. Under these circumstances, negative perceptions about Bangladesh have been generated in India, which is totally unjustified. The news media and social media in India are rife with disinformation about Bangladesh. Certain Indian politicians are also making negative remarks about Bangladesh.

We are neighbours and will always want friendly relations with our neighbours. That is why we can expect India to have a correct perception about the situation in Bangladesh. In these changed conditions, we will wait for Indian policy to be conducive towards the people of Bangladesh and the relationship between the two countries is rebuilt.

The statements and comments being made from the Indian side in particular are totally unacceptable. These do not bode well for relations between the two countries. This state of affairs must end as soon as possible.

Prothom Alo : Recently the Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh referred to Bangladesh and talked about preparing for war. How do you view this?

ANM Muniruzzaman At a recent high-level meeting, the Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh referred to Bangladesh in a comparison with the Russian-Ukraine war and the Israel-Hamas war. He said that the Indian armed forces should be prepared for any untoward situation that may emerge from these circumstances. It is very surprising because in no way can Bangladesh be viewed on the same level as other conflicts in the world. Bangladesh is a peace-loving and stable country. There is no conflict here. The Indian defence minister's remarks about Bangladesh are entirely unwarranted. He made this remark at a high-level meeting and so we should seriously look into why such a statement was made. If necessary, diplomatic channels can be used to ask for an explanation to this statement. But overall, such a statement was not at all warranted.

Prothom Alo : In the prevailing changed circumstances, where do Bangladesh-India relations stand? Do you think Bangladesh or India should take any steps to normalise relations?

ANM Muniruzzaman Bangladesh-India relations are going through strained times at the moment. The statements and comments being made from the Indian side in particular are totally unacceptable. These do not bode well for relations between the two countries. This state of affairs must end as soon as possible. It is necessary to maintain friendly and normal relations between the two countries. In the prevailing circumstances the best thing would be for India to send a special emissary to Dhaka and have detailed discussions with the Bangladesh government to jointly devise a way ahead. We must place stress on being able to maintain good neighbourly ties. But as Bangladeshis, we will keep in mind that Bangladesh's national interests and dignity must always be upheld.

Prothom Alo : The situation in Myanmar along the border with Bangladesh has deteriorated. The Arakan Army is about to gain control of the Rakhine state. How far is the new government being able to keep tabs on this situation? Do you think there is anything to be done?

The situation has deteriorated considerably in Myanmar as they are in the midst of a civil war. A radical change has taken place in the neighbouring state of Rakhine. Around 90 per cent of Rakhine is now under control of the Arakan Army. Other than the state capital Sittwe, all towns and villages in the state are more or less in Arakan Army's control.

We need to think afresh what Bangladesh's relations will be with Rakhine in the changed circumstances. Changes have also come about the state Chin, along our border. We need to analyse and decide whether we will establish direct ties with the new party or establishment in control in Rakhine and Chin. The border along Rakhine may become volatile at any time. We need to pay special attention to keeping our border secure.

Bangladesh is significantly lacking in an in-depth observation and understanding of the changed situation in Rakhine and Chin. And because of this, any sort of security threat may arise at any time. As soon as possible we need to assess the situation and determine the necessary measures to be taken, and proceed accordingly.

It is imperative under the circumstances for the government to appoint a national security advisor. If a national security advisor is appointed, then proper coordination and supervision of these issues can be carried out.

Prothom Alo : Rohingya refugees are entering Bangladesh all over again. This is worsening the Rohingya refugee situation. What recommendations would you give the government to tackle this situation?

ANM Muniruzzaman Bangladesh has long been facing the Rohingya refugee crisis. It does not seem that there is going to be a solution to the problem any time soon. If Rakhine goes fully into the hands of the Arakan Army, then perhaps direct communications can be taken up with them and discussion can be held anew about Rohingya repatriation. The alarming fact here is that over the past few months, 8000 more Rohingyas have entered Bangladesh. Many more are attempting to enter. We need to take measures to prevent any more Rohingya from entering Bangladesh.

The Rohingya refugee problem has now exceeded being a humanitarian problem and has become a security problem. They are posing as a threat to Bangladesh's internal security too. There are all sorts of illegal activities being carried out within the Rohingya camps. ARSA is recruiting Rohingyas from the camps and using the refugees as their fighters. Overall, the Rohingya crisis has turned into a complex security situation. This must be brought under control as soon as possible. There must be full control on the Rohingya refugees.

Prothom Alo : Bangladesh had treaties with many countries regarding terrorism, small arms, drug trafficking and other issues. Such matters require regular communication and exchange of information. These are important matters related to the security of the country. Has there been any hiccup in these processes in the present situation?

ANM Muniruzzaman Bangladesh is signatory to many agreements and treaties with friendly states. It has agreements related to anti-terrorism, prevention of narcotics and small arms trafficking, and so on. A deficiency is noticed in coordination, leading to new security threats cropping up. Quite a few weaknesses are noticeable in the type of coordination, analysis and control that is required to fully ensure national security. It is imperative under the circumstances for the government to appoint a national security advisor. If a national security advisor is appointed, then proper coordination and supervision of these issues can be carried out.

Capacity and coordination are extremely important in the case of national security. It is also imperative to form a national security coordination institution under the national security advisor. If this is established, then it will be possible, alongside the conventional security issues, to tackle the new security challenges such as cyber security, terrorism, maritime security, climate security and such. All modern states of the world have formed such institutions long ago. We need to observe and study their experiences and create a framework suitable for Bangladesh.

Prothom Alo : Thank you.

Thank you too.​

 

[Saif]

Why do the Indian armed forces need to be prepared?

However, it is essential to clearly highlight that the Indian assessment regarding the political change in Bangladesh resulting from the struggle of the democracy-loving people, is wrong and dangerous.

en.prothomalo.com

Why do the Indian armed forces need to be prepared?
Kamal Ahmed
Updated: 12 Sep 2024, 17: 10

Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh attends the Joint Commanders’ Conference (JCC) in the Indian city of Lucknow on 5 September 2024.ANI

Over the past decade, the most commonly enunciated phrase in our diplomatic talk was "India-Bangladesh friendship is at an all-time high". But last week we heard the Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh calling upon their armed forces to remain prepared, referring to the Russian-Ukraine war and the Israel-Hamas conflict, along with the situation in Bangladesh. This was not any political speech of his, it was directives at the Joint Commanders' Conference of the armed forces.

Our foreign affairs advisor Md Touhid Hossain said he was more surprised than alarmed at Rajnath Singh's statement. He can use the term 'surprised' as a diplomatic reaction. So it was no surprise either when he said there was "no fear of any war between India and Bangladesh." However, it is essential to clearly highlight that the Indian assessment regarding the political change in Bangladesh resulting from the struggle of the democracy-loving people, is wrong and dangerous.

There are two reasons why it is essential to point out this incorrect assessment. Firstly, the conflicts in Israel and Gaza are wars against foreign aggression and occupation. Bangladesh is not involved in any aggression, occupation or war. So the reference to Bangladesh is not at all relevant in the backdrop of India's policy of not taking any stand in the Russian aggression against Ukraine or against Israel's genocide to retain its occupation in Gaza.

Secondly, what has taken place in Bangladesh is entirely a matter of our domestic politics wherein an autocrat was toppled in a mass uprising. There is no visible role of any third country or quarter's involvement here. On the contrary, the objective expressed in his directives to the armed forces to evaluate and take up a strategy in this regard, can be seen nothing short of an explicit effort of intervention by a foreign power.

The questions become even more significant on two grounds -- firstly, India has lent its open support to the 15-year undemocratic and oppressive rule of toppled autocrat Sheikh Hasina; and secondly, India has given shelter to Sheikh Hasina after she fled the country in face of the mass uprising. On top of that, India has not made it clear as yet as to whether this shelter is temporary or a permanent political shelter.

In its efforts to highlight itself as an unrivalled superpower in South Asia, India has pitched this region into danger of nuclear weapons. Also, its efforts on a global scale to be on equal footing with China, has increased the complications in the geopolitics of the region. India's relentless endeavour to create and consolidate a sphere of influence in the region, makes it increasingly difficult for its smaller neighbours to pursue independent and autonomous foreign policies. This narrow attitude of the big country towards its small neighbours is not limited to just choosing political allies, but it reflected in all areas of bilateral relations.

In this regard, questions may be raised about fairness and equality in the areas of sharing water of common rivers, development of shared natural resources, development assistance, tackling human crises like sheltering refugees and cooperation at a global level.

The dismal state of India's relations with its neighbours goes to show that prime minister Modi's so-called 'Neighbourhood First' policy is nothing but political rhetoric. It may be relevant to quote from what Indian journalist Jayanta Roy Chowdhury wrote around three months ago in the Free Press Journal, "While relations with Pakistan are frozen in time and space with charges of terror export against Islamabad, Nepal has been veering towards the Chinese orbit and squabbling with India over a map which shows bits and pieces of Kumaon as part of the former Hindu kingdom. Bhutan, an Indian protectorate, has been striking off on its own in its anxious quest to not antagonise a rising China and is currently busy negotiating its border with Beijing" (Neighbourhood Diplomacy: Dhaka, India’s Only Best Friend? 23 June 2024).

Professor Mushtaq Khan of London University's School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), who has worked on reforms in Nepal, remarked that the common people of Nepal for a few generations will not forget the economic sanctions that India had imposed in 2016 in order to place political pressure on Nepal.

We know that though the Maldivian president Muizzu attended Modi's swearing-in ceremony, he forced India to withdraw a few dozen of its soldiers that were stationed there. When Sri Lanka's economy was on the brink of collapse, India may have assisted it with loans, but it is clear that in order to have its massive loans with China rescheduled, it certainly will not solely provide India with all facilities. Simply put, India had endeavoured to steadily increase and consolidate its influence in Bangladesh through Sheikh Hasina, the so-called Iron Lady of South Asia. The Delhi policymakers forget the tried and tested truth that the oppressed people are never the friends of those who forge friendship with an autocrat.

On 2018 when Sheikh Hasina had commented that India will forever remember what she had given it, there was a tone of dismay in her words, for not getting anything in return. But perhaps India did not understand the depth and extent of that dismay, or perhaps they felt that they would repay by providing the person Sheikh Hasina with shelter if such a situation arose.

The two Bangladeshi young children who were recently shot dead by Indian border guards, Swarna Das and Jayanta Kumar Singh, were both adherents of the Hindu religion.

The list of what has been given to India is very long. The list of what has been received in return is not only extremely short, but lacks in fairness in many instances. It is now almost universally acknowledged that the three rigged and fraudulent elections held to extend the tenure in power, would not have been possible without India's support and, in certain instances, direct intervention. The recompense was not for the country, but for the individual.

'Connectivity' is a buzz word in South Asia nowadays, and somewhat held in esteem too. Increasing road, railway and river connectivity, in other words, prioritising the revival of historic routes of communication, has in effect unilaterally benefitted India. Even the energy sector has been slipped into the connectivity network. As a result, instead of any competitive process, a power generation and purchase deal, with ridiculous conditions, has been signed with the Indian Adani Group, which has close ties with the Indian government. Even international experts have expressed their incredibility at how Bangladesh signed such a deal that went against its own interests.

Now the big burden of transactions in the energy sector has been added to the steadily mounting imbalanced trade with the large neighbour. By means of laying a pipeline to import fuel oil and the floating LNG project, energy dependence on India has been increased further. According to the Financial Times, just in electricity alone, one-fifth of Bangladesh's demands depend on India. Nepal's energy embargo experience indicates just how dangerous such dependence is to national security. Yet almost 40 per cent of Bangladesh's power generation capacity remains unused.

The foreign affairs advisor sees no danger of conflict with India. But it is imperative to know how the information war and the killing of innocent people along the border will be resolved. The democratic aspirations of the 170 million Bangladeshis are insulted when the democratic movement that toppled the autocrat is dubbed as a conspiracy of Islamic fundamentalists and the US. The Indian mainstream media is keeping up a steady flow of disinformation and propaganda regarding minority rights in Bangladesh, fanning flames of communal hatred and unwarranted instigation. India may be creating a furor over security of the minority community after the political change in Bangladesh, but the two Bangladeshi young children who were recently shot dead by Indian border guards, Swarna Das and Jayanta Kumar Singh, were both adherents of the Hindu religion.

* Kamal Ahmed is a senior journalist​

 

[Bilal9]

Bangladesh is amid a serious security threat

After the student-people's uprising, the country entered a vacuum of law and order in absence of the police. Such a situation is certainly a matter of security concern for any society and country. But it is also important to realise that any country goes through a period of unrest, to an extent...

en.prothomalo.com

Interview: ANM Muniruzzaman
Bangladesh is amid a serious security threat

View attachment 8488
Maj Gen ANM Muniruzzaman (retd)

Maj Gen ANM Muniruzzaman (retd) is a security expert and president of Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS). In the aftermath of the mass uprising, the country's overall security structure is in disarray. In an interview with Prothom Alo's AKM Zakaria and Monoj Dey, he talks about the possible internal and external security threats faced by the country and the need to increase capacity and coordination in the area of national security.

Prothom Alo : After the student-people's uprising, the country was more or less bereft its police. Members of the police force had fled, abandoning the police stations and outposts. Things have improved. But the police are not back as they were. The police force is lacking both in morale and manpower. How serious is this in relation to the country's law and order situation and internal security?

ANM Muniruzzaman After the student-people's uprising, the country entered a vacuum of law and order in absence of the police. Such a situation is certainly a matter of security concern for any society and country. But it is also important to realise that any country goes through a period of unrest, to an extent, in a post-revolution period. In that sense, it must be said that Bangladesh fared much better than most countries. This is especially true in the first three days after Sheikh Hasina fled from the country on 5 August, when there was not only no police but also no government in place.

Even in such circumstances it is possible to maintain peace and stability in the country by deploying other forces. It has been a month since the overthrow and while the situation has improved considerably, we still remain at a risk where law and order is concerned. We must try to emerge from this as early as possible.

Prothom Alo : As a force, the police to a great extent have lost the confidence of the people, given the manner in which they were politicised and also the brutality and armed assault they unleashed to suppress the student-people's movement. How can this force be restructured? Many members of the police had not joined work. How can this vacuum be speedily filled?

ANM Muniruzzaman We are aware that it is not possible to run a state without the police. The police force therefore must be reconstituted. It must be restructured. A study must be carried out on the existing state of the police force. Based on this, reforms of the police force must be taken up. Firstly the police laws must be changed and updated. Also the police recruitment process must be made transparent and in keeping with the times. The police must be trained in such a matter that they are instilled with a sense of values. The rule of law must be established in running the force. As many of the police have fled and are not resuming duties, a shortfall in manpower has emerged. This vacuum must be filled as speedily as possible. If necessary, able soldiers who have retired from the army and other armed forces, as well as reservists, can be recruited to fill the deficit in the police force.

Prothom Alo : We have seen many top criminals have been released from prison. Arms have been looted from police stations and other places. What sort of threat can these incidents pose to the country's law and order and internal security?

During the movement, quite a few convicts broke out of several prisons in the country. Many of them were top terrors, some even convicted on charges of terrorism. I have seen in the newspapers that several top criminals have been released on bail from prison over the past few days. This is a serious threat to internal security of the country. They will have the propensity to get involved in all sorts of anti-social and illegal activities once they leave jail.

A considerable amount of arms and ammunition have also been looted from various police stations and prisons.

According to the latest updates, 1,885 missing arms still remain unrecovered. A large amount of ammunition also has not been recovered. From the media we have also learnt that some specialised weapons, ammunition and other communication equipment used by the Special Security Force or SSF, have been looted too. No one but this specialised force uses such equipment. This heightens the internal security threats multiple times over.

Overall, we are faced with a serious security threat. It is imperative to adopt effective measures to recover the missing arms, ammunition and other equipment.

Prothom Alo : Whether it is internal or external security threats, information and activities of the intelligence agencies is vital. During the past government, the intelligence agencies were used for party interests. In the present circumstances, how functional are the intelligence agencies and their activities? How do you see this situation in the perspective of national security?

ANM Muniruzzaman In any country of the world, the intelligence agencies play a vital role in internal and external security. Based on the information collected, collated and analysed by the agencies, the government gets advanced information on any security threats and can take action to prevent these in time. NSI is one of the major intelligence agencies of Bangladesh. Many of the NSI personnel did not return to their workplace after the fall of the government. As a result, the capacity of this agency has fallen considerably.

Also, given their controversial role during the past government, the other intelligence agencies like DGFI and SB are also facing a stiff challenge in the new circumstances. Work has come to a sort of standstill in these institutions. Steps must be taken so that our intelligence agencies can resume work as soon as possible. It would be most unwise to allow any sort of deficiencies to linger on in these agencies.

Prothom Alo : Sheikh Hasina's government fell in the face of the student-people's uprising. The last government remained in power by means of three controversial and one-sided elections and India quite openly played a role in keeping it ensconced in power. It looks like India did not take the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government very well. What would you say about that?

ANM Muniruzzaman After the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government, the policy India had followed over the past 16 years regarding Bangladesh was hit hard. In short, India's Bangladesh policy has failed. Under these circumstances, negative perceptions about Bangladesh have been generated in India, which is totally unjustified. The news media and social media in India are rife with disinformation about Bangladesh. Certain Indian politicians are also making negative remarks about Bangladesh.

We are neighbours and will always want friendly relations with our neighbours. That is why we can expect India to have a correct perception about the situation in Bangladesh. In these changed conditions, we will wait for Indian policy to be conducive towards the people of Bangladesh and the relationship between the two countries is rebuilt.

The statements and comments being made from the Indian side in particular are totally unacceptable. These do not bode well for relations between the two countries. This state of affairs must end as soon as possible.

Prothom Alo : Recently the Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh referred to Bangladesh and talked about preparing for war. How do you view this?

ANM Muniruzzaman At a recent high-level meeting, the Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh referred to Bangladesh in a comparison with the Russian-Ukraine war and the Israel-Hamas war. He said that the Indian armed forces should be prepared for any untoward situation that may emerge from these circumstances. It is very surprising because in no way can Bangladesh be viewed on the same level as other conflicts in the world. Bangladesh is a peace-loving and stable country. There is no conflict here. The Indian defence minister's remarks about Bangladesh are entirely unwarranted. He made this remark at a high-level meeting and so we should seriously look into why such a statement was made. If necessary, diplomatic channels can be used to ask for an explanation to this statement. But overall, such a statement was not at all warranted.

Prothom Alo : In the prevailing changed circumstances, where do Bangladesh-India relations stand? Do you think Bangladesh or India should take any steps to normalise relations?

ANM Muniruzzaman Bangladesh-India relations are going through strained times at the moment. The statements and comments being made from the Indian side in particular are totally unacceptable. These do not bode well for relations between the two countries. This state of affairs must end as soon as possible. It is necessary to maintain friendly and normal relations between the two countries. In the prevailing circumstances the best thing would be for India to send a special emissary to Dhaka and have detailed discussions with the Bangladesh government to jointly devise a way ahead. We must place stress on being able to maintain good neighbourly ties. But as Bangladeshis, we will keep in mind that Bangladesh's national interests and dignity must always be upheld.

Prothom Alo : The situation in Myanmar along the border with Bangladesh has deteriorated. The Arakan Army is about to gain control of the Rakhine state. How far is the new government being able to keep tabs on this situation? Do you think there is anything to be done?

The situation has deteriorated considerably in Myanmar as they are in the midst of a civil war. A radical change has taken place in the neighbouring state of Rakhine. Around 90 per cent of Rakhine is now under control of the Arakan Army. Other than the state capital Sittwe, all towns and villages in the state are more or less in Arakan Army's control.

We need to think afresh what Bangladesh's relations will be with Rakhine in the changed circumstances. Changes have also come about the state Chin, along our border. We need to analyse and decide whether we will establish direct ties with the new party or establishment in control in Rakhine and Chin. The border along Rakhine may become volatile at any time. We need to pay special attention to keeping our border secure.

Bangladesh is significantly lacking in an in-depth observation and understanding of the changed situation in Rakhine and Chin. And because of this, any sort of security threat may arise at any time. As soon as possible we need to assess the situation and determine the necessary measures to be taken, and proceed accordingly.

It is imperative under the circumstances for the government to appoint a national security advisor. If a national security advisor is appointed, then proper coordination and supervision of these issues can be carried out.

Prothom Alo : Rohingya refugees are entering Bangladesh all over again. This is worsening the Rohingya refugee situation. What recommendations would you give the government to tackle this situation?

ANM Muniruzzaman Bangladesh has long been facing the Rohingya refugee crisis. It does not seem that there is going to be a solution to the problem any time soon. If Rakhine goes fully into the hands of the Arakan Army, then perhaps direct communications can be taken up with them and discussion can be held anew about Rohingya repatriation. The alarming fact here is that over the past few months, 8000 more Rohingyas have entered Bangladesh. Many more are attempting to enter. We need to take measures to prevent any more Rohingya from entering Bangladesh.

The Rohingya refugee problem has now exceeded being a humanitarian problem and has become a security problem. They are posing as a threat to Bangladesh's internal security too. There are all sorts of illegal activities being carried out within the Rohingya camps. ARSA is recruiting Rohingyas from the camps and using the refugees as their fighters. Overall, the Rohingya crisis has turned into a complex security situation. This must be brought under control as soon as possible. There must be full control on the Rohingya refugees.

Prothom Alo : Bangladesh had treaties with many countries regarding terrorism, small arms, drug trafficking and other issues. Such matters require regular communication and exchange of information. These are important matters related to the security of the country. Has there been any hiccup in these processes in the present situation?

ANM Muniruzzaman Bangladesh is signatory to many agreements and treaties with friendly states. It has agreements related to anti-terrorism, prevention of narcotics and small arms trafficking, and so on. A deficiency is noticed in coordination, leading to new security threats cropping up. Quite a few weaknesses are noticeable in the type of coordination, analysis and control that is required to fully ensure national security. It is imperative under the circumstances for the government to appoint a national security advisor. If a national security advisor is appointed, then proper coordination and supervision of these issues can be carried out.

Capacity and coordination are extremely important in the case of national security. It is also imperative to form a national security coordination institution under the national security advisor. If this is established, then it will be possible, alongside the conventional security issues, to tackle the new security challenges such as cyber security, terrorism, maritime security, climate security and such. All modern states of the world have formed such institutions long ago. We need to observe and study their experiences and create a framework suitable for Bangladesh.

Prothom Alo : Thank you.

Thank you too.​

I think this Rajnath Singh guy is comparing Bangladesh' situation to that of Myanmar, an unstable one.

These high-level people are terminally ignorant about the situation on the ground in Bangladesh.

I have begun to think that they are rather clueless - as far as (lack of) intelligence briefings go.

The danger is - that they are liable to start a ground war based on misinformation which could be a learning lesson for them.

I guess we need to be ready too, no matter what.

 

[Saif]

I think this Rajnath Singh guy is comparing Bangladesh' situation to that of Myanmar, an unstable one.

These high-level people are terminally ignorant about the situation on the ground in Bangladesh.

I have begun to think that they are rather clueless - as far as (lack of) intelligence briefings go.

The danger is - that they are liable to start a ground war based on misinformation which could be a learning lesson for them.

I guess we need to be ready too, no matter what.

India can never attack Bangladesh. Bangladesh army is quite capable of increasing the cost of invasion prohibitively high. If India conducts a misadventure into Bangladesh, they will find Bangladesh army well prepared.

 

[PakistanProud]

 

[PakistanProud]

 

[Saif]

A West Bengali journalist claims that India can destroy Dhaka in two and half minutes by firing a single hypersonic cruise missile Zircon from Calcutta. Iran fired 180 hypersonic ballistic missiles at Tel Aviv but could not destroy it. And we all know that Dhaka is 6 times larger than Tel Aviv. These Indian specially the West Bengali journalists are stupid enough to claim such absurd thing.

 

[Krishna with Flute]

A West Bengali journalist claims that India can destroy Dhaka in two and half minutes by firing a single hypersonic cruise missile Zircon from Calcutta. Iran fired 180 hypersonic ballistic missiles at Tel Aviv but could not destroy it. And we all know that Dhaka is 6 times larger than Tel Aviv. These Indian specially the West Bengali journalists are stupid enough to claim such absurd thing.

I agree with you that with one missile, Dhaka or any other city cannot be destroyed unless it is nuclear. However, with the strike of few missiles, all the bases and war fighting capability of BD can be crippled without much collateral damage. A carpet bombing may follow their after followed by naval blockade, flooding of BD etc.

What Iran fired were ballistic missiles much easy to intercept. Israel has world's best air defense systems. Iron dome, Devid sling, Barak 8, Aero I, II, III and also protected by THAAD. BD has nothing of them. Moreover, Iran and Israel is about a thousand KM separated by geographical location. In case of India- BD possible war, we can use multi barrel rocket launcher or long-range artillery. So war between India and BD shall be totally different. India is forth powerful nation in Global power ranking with world's third most powerful Airforce. BD is ranked 37th, While Iran and Israel are 14th and 17th in ranking.

However, currently, India and BD are friend. New illegitimate unelected regime of BD is not India friendly. If this regime continues to remain in power it will give radical elements full freedom to to spoil relations with India. This will be same as what Pakistan army did to justify its extravagant budget. In those cases, war shall be a possibility, and result of the same shall be similar to what we saw in India BD last T20 match.

 

[Krishna with Flute]

Are bhai, why did you fight with Iraq for so many year then? Why did you hang Sunni clerics together some time ago? This is nothing but a sham. You are not fooling anybody with such false narrative of Islamic Brotherhood.

 

[Krishna with Flute]

Here Brother Islamic nation arrested 3 brother for killing of Kufra Jew.

3 Uzbeks Arrested In U.A.E. For Alleged Role In Israeli-Moldovan Rabbi's Killing​

Zvi Kogan, an Israeli rabbi, went missing on November 22 in Dubai. His body was later found by security services.

The United Arab Emirates on November 25 disclosed the names of three suspects detained in the killing of a 28-year-old Israeli-Moldovan ultra-Orthodox rabbi saying they were Uzbek nationals.

The suspects were arrested a day earlier after the body of Zvi Kogan, who ran a Kosher grocery store in Dubai and was also a representative of the Orthodox Jewish group Chabad, was discovered by security services.

U.A.E. authorities identified the suspects as Mahmudjon Abdurahim, 28, Olimboi Tohirovich, 28, and Azizbek Kamilovich, 33, apparently giving patronymic names of the last two men instead their last names. They did not say if official charges have been filed against the suspects.

"Hate has no place in our world. Our thoughts are with his family, the Jewish community, and all who grieve. We are in contact with Israel and the U.A.E.," Moldovan President Maia Sandu said in a statement.

Kogan had been reported missing on November 22. His body was found later in the city of Al Ain.

The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denounced the killing of Kogan, calling it a "heinous anti-Semitic terrorist act."

While Israeli officials have not publicly accused archrival Iran for the deadly attack, analysts noted that Tehran has been threatening retaliation against Israel for recent air strikes it carried out on Iranian soil after Iran launched a missile attack against Israel.

Tehran has denied any involvement in the murder of Kogan.

The Muslim-majority Gulf state with an overwhelmingly expatriate population prides itself on its safety, stability, and religious tolerance. The Chabad Hasidic movement is known for its outreach efforts worldwide.

The U.A.E. normalized relations with Israel in 2020 alongside Bahrain and Morocco in a series of U.S.-brokered agreements known as the Abraham Accords.

There is no figure for the number of Jews in the U.A.E., but an Israeli official has told AFP there were about 2,000 Israelis in the Gulf country, with the Jewish community estimated to be up to twice that figure.

The White House also condemned the killing on November 24.

"This was a horrific crime against all those who stand for peace, tolerance, and coexistence. It was an assault as well on U.A.E. and its rejection of violent extremism across the board," the White House said in a statement on November 24.

 

[Krishna with Flute]

There was no democracy in Bangladesh when Hasina was in power. She grabbed state power by election engineering. She destroyed all the democratic institutions such as media, judiciary, and administration to remain in power ad infinitum. And stop poking your runny nose into Bangladesh's affairs.

BD is a bordering Nation. Any instability in BD affects India. Moreover, we have all the right to be concerned about when Hindus safety is at a stake.

 

[Saif]

BD is a bordering Nation. Any instability in BD affects India. Moreover, we have all the right to be concerned about when Hindus safety is at a stake.

Hindus in Bangladesh are our citizens. There is no room for India to poke its runny nose in Bangladesh's internal affairs. If India pokes its runny nose in Bangladesh's internal affairs in the name of protecting the Hindus, Bangladesh and Pakistan will also intervene in India (with the help of China) to protect the Muslims.

 

[Krishna with Flute]

Hindus in Bangladesh are our citizens. There is no room for India to poke its runny nose in Bangladesh's internal affairs. If India pokes its runny nose in Bangladesh's internal affairs in the name of protecting the Hindus, Bangladesh and Pakistan will also intervene in India (with the help of China) to protect the Muslims.

Find some other nation to help. Didn't you see how China gave up in Himalaya and begged for restoration of flight? Pakistani people are becoming pro India. Pakistani army is now incapacitated to make any impact in India. Try something else.