It has to be grudgingly admitted that India has a tendency to take the upper hand in its relations with small neighbours. It is slow even in responding to their friendly gestures. The Union External Affairs Ministry took six days to acknowledge Dhaka’s rare gesture in honouring Indians and Indian institutions for their contribution to the Bangladesh liberation war. The delay betrayed official indifference and arrogance in New Delhi. There have not been many cases of a country paying a tribute to a neighbouring country in this manner. External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna is well aware of the significance of Dhaka’s gesture. But he appears to be untroubled by the tactlessness shown by his ministry. Dhaka has reason to be piqued by New Delhi’s half-hearted and belated reciprocity. India’s other small neighbours are not likely to appreciate this kind of impropriety.
Bangladesh Prime Minister Hasina Wajed is more than embarrassed by this misunderstanding. She has been called India’s “stooge” by her opponents in her country. The latest incident will be grist to her Opposition’s mill. The awards conferred caused much criticism of the Bangladesh Prime Minister by the Opposition. India has added to her vulnerability. Hasina Wajed honoured Indian individuals and institutions in spite of what Dhaka may consider New Delhi’s failure to keep to its commitment on the sharing of the waters of the Teesta river. The Awami League government has been pro-active in cracking down on militant groups from India’s Northeast taking shelter and training on Bangladesh soil. Some of their leaders have been captured and handed over to India. Talks on trade and transit issues are going on apace. Indian arrogance over Dhaka’s latest gesture of goodwill will not enhance New Delhi’s image.