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This event is part of the series “The Neighbourhood Scope,” a monthly feature of the Strategic Studies Programme that intends to rekindle key conversations, questions, and debates concerning India’s neighbourhood.
The February 2026 elections have placed Bangladesh in a critical transition. The newly elected government, led by Tarique Rahman and his Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has immense responsibilities. After nearly 18 months of chaos, the government is entrusted with ensuring stability and peace in the country, protecting minority rights, promoting governance and democratic reforms, reviving the economy, and recalibrating ties with India. However, this opportunity is not free of challenges. The recent developments in West Asia have continued to pose several challenges to the country’s economy. The referendum mandate remains unimplemented, and external partners are vying for influence in the country.
How will the BNP-led government differ from both of its predecessors? Is the government capable of bringing in much-needed governance and democratic reforms, including tackling crony capitalism, nepotism, corruption, and dynasty politics? What economic challenges is the current government facing, and how has the crisis in West Asia exacerbated its economic difficulties?Where does India stand in BNP’s strategic calculations?What does the new government mean for other external players, including China and the US?
