India-Bangladesh Border Haats crucial to counter divisive narratives, foster mutual trust

It is essential to revisit people-to-people initiatives that are critical to revamping the India-Bangladesh ties and take it forward in a positive direction

The evolving political crisis in Bangladesh has posed significant challenges for India, impacting key areas such as geopolitics, internal security, and communal harmony. The abrupt departure of Sheikh Hasina, a longstanding ally of New Delhi, has created a leadership vacuum in Dhaka, triggering instability with cross-border implications. This has resulted in the heightened vigilance along the India-Bangladesh border, driven by concerns over potential illegal immigration and its associated socio-political risks.

Between August and December, intensified border security efforts resulted in the apprehension of 1,393 Bangladeshi nationals, highlighting the effectiveness of the Border Security Forces (BSF). However, with nearly 60 per cent of transborder crimes occurring in areas lacking fencing along the India-Bangladesh border, the BSF initiated the construction of a single-row fence to address this gap. This move, however, met with objections from its Bangladeshi counterpart, the Border Guards Bangladesh. The disagreement escalated to the diplomatic level, prompting both governments to summon each other’s envoys to resolve the issue.

Beyond the recent events at the border, the growing religious polarisation among the populations also raises serious concerns about the deterioration of people-to-people (P2P) ties between India and Bangladesh. These ties, long seen as a pivotal factor in the bilateral relationship, have historically transcended political boundaries, fostering cultural and social connections.

Recently, during a media briefing, India’s Ministry of External Affairs’ spokesperson, said that New Delhi wants its ties to move in a positive direction with Bangladesh. As tensions and disagreements rise between people and border forces of the two neighbouring nations, it is essential to revisit P2P initiatives that are critical to revamping the India-Bangladesh ties and take it forward in a positive direction.

Amidst the challenges confronting the bilateral relationship, the ‘Border Haats’ stand out as a vital platform for fostering grassroots connections. These cross-border marketplaces, which facilitate trade and cultural exchange, remain an enduring symbol of co-operation and mutual trust that deserves greater recognition and promotion.

Rooted in the shared historical and cultural ties between communities on both sides of the border, the Border Haats serve not just as hubs of local trade but also as meeting points that reinforce social and economic bonds. Although the Covid-19 pandemic temporarily disrupted their operations, the resumption of trade in 2022 marked a significant step forward. Further momentum was added in May 2023 with the opening of a new Border Haat at Bholaganj, Meghalaya.

It is noteworthy that, despite the prevailing political and communal tensions between India and Bangladesh, the Border Haats have continued to fulfil their intended purpose as conduits of grassroots engagement. Even in the aftermath of Hasina's departure and the resulting political upheaval in Dhaka, these trade platforms have demonstrated resilience. For instance, the Srinagar Border Haat in Tripura recently recorded its highest-ever sales, reinforcing the enduring economic and social relevance of these marketplaces.

In a similar vein, the Border Haat in East Khasi Hills, which was temporarily closed following the political transition in Bangladesh, resumed operations in October. Its re-opening emphasises the critical role such initiatives play in fostering P2P relations, even amidst diplomatic challenges.

More than mere trade hubs, Border Haats symbolise a pragmatic approach to fostering trust and collaboration. However, reliance on Border Haats alone cannot suffice. To truly address the challenges posed by religious polarisation and political instability, New Delhi and Dhaka must adopt a more holistic approach to strengthening P2P ties. This requires revisiting collaboration through cultural exchange programmes, academic collaborations, and youth initiatives that bridge the generational and ideological divides emerging between the two nations.

Ultimately, the erosion of trust between India and Bangladesh is not merely a bilateral concern; it risks destabilising the broader region. Both nations must recognise that grassroots engagement holds the key to countering divisive narratives and fostering mutual understanding. Platforms like Border Haats serve as primary example of what is possible when economic pragmatism meets cultural empathy.

The way forward lies in embracing this dual approach — sustaining grassroots connections while fostering institutional frameworks that nurture these relationships. At a time when geopolitical currents threaten to widen rifts, New Delhi and Dhaka must seize the opportunity to rebuild their partnership from the ground up. The resilience of P2P ties, exemplified by the enduring success of Border Haats, is a reminder that even amidst challenges, the threads of shared history and mutual respect can be rewoven to create a more stable and prosperous future for both nations.

Arkoprabho Hazra is a master’s student at the Geneva Graduate Institute, specialising in human rights and humanitarianism. X: @ArkoprabhoH

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are the author's own. They do not necessarily reflect the views of DH.