Mohammad Yunus, the chief advisor of the interim government of Bangladesh, has once again made such a statement about India, which has created controversy. Recently, Yunus visited China and made some comments about the north-eastern states of India. There is a sharp reaction in India to this statement, and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has also cornered Yunus on this issue. Along with this, Himanta has also given a big suggestion regarding India’s strategically important Chicken Neck Corridor.
What did Yunus say?
Mohammad Yunus had appealed to China to increase its economic influence in Bangladesh. Along with this, Yunus said that India’s north-eastern states, which are surrounded by land on all sides, can prove to be an opportunity. Yunus said, “The seven states of the eastern part of India are called ‘seven sisters’. These areas are surrounded by land on all sides and do not have access to the sea. Bangladesh is the only guardian of the ocean in this region.”
Yunus’ statement is insulting and condemnable – Himanta
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma reacted sharply to this statement of Mohammad Yunus. Himanta said, “This statement of Mohammad Yunus, the so-called advisor of the interim government of Bangladesh, in which he called the seven sister states of north-eastern India ‘landlocked’ and described Bangladesh as the guardian of their maritime access, is insulting and completely reprehensible.”
Himanta’s big suggestion regarding Chicken Neck Corridor
Chief Minister Himanta further said, “This statement of Yunus highlights the threat to India’s strategic ‘Chicken Neck’ corridor. In history, some internal elements had also made a dangerous suggestion to physically separate the North-East from the mainland by cutting this important route (Siliguri Corridor). Therefore, it is necessary that a strong railway and road network should be developed under and around the Chicken Neck Corridor. Along with this, alternative road routes should be explored to connect the North-East with mainland India, so that Chicken Neck can be bypassed. Engineering challenges may arise in this process, but with new technical measures and determination this goal can be achieved. Provocative statements like that of Mohammad Yunus should not be taken lightly, as these statements reflect deep strategic thoughts and long-term agenda.”
Mohammad Yunus’ statement has not only increased tensions in India-Bangladesh relations, but has also sparked a new debate about India’s strategic approach. This statement by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma can further deepen this controversy.
