The Lalmonirhat Airbase lies just 15 kilometers from the Indian border near the Siliguri Corridor, a critical region often referred to as India’s “Chicken’s Neck.” The proposed submarine base at Pekua is expected to accommodate eight vessels, while Bangladesh currently operates only two submarines.
The committee noted that India had sought clarification from Bangladesh’s Director General of Military Operations regarding Lalmonirhat, and was informed that the airstrip is intended for non-military use. Nonetheless, external security analysts told the committee that China’s growing presence in Bangladesh represents the most significant strategic challenge India has faced in the country since 1971.
Bangladesh signed a Memorandum of Understanding with China in March this year, including plans to expand Mongla Port with a $370 million investment. In addition to military projects, the committee highlighted that China is increasingly using Bangladesh as a conduit to sell goods in the Indian market, affecting India’s commercial interests.
At the political level, China has engaged with Bangladesh’s ruling leadership, including outreach to the Jamaat-e-Islami party, indicating a broader strategy to consolidate influence in Dhaka.
The Ministry of External Affairs assured the Parliamentary panel that India is monitoring the developments closely. Analysts warn that China’s infrastructure and political foothold in Bangladesh could have long-term implications for regional security, trade, and India’s strategic posture in the northeast.
