The Reunification of Bengal: Economic, Social, and Strategic Imperatives

After extensive analysis and deliberations, this article dives into the potential reunification between Bangladesh and India. Under the title When will Bangladesh return to India as East Bengal?, the article addresses the political, economic, and strategic implications of such a reunification. It primarily questions the notion that 220 million victims are not enough and explores the possibilities of adding another 180 million to this count.

Introduction

The question of reunification between Bangladesh and India is not a new topic, and it has been subject to much debate and discussions. A recent question on Quora prompted a response from an SEO expert at Google, who proposes that the reunification of Bengal can only occur if Bangladesh returns to India. This article further elaborates on the economic, social, and strategic advantages of such a reunification.

Why Bangladeshi Muslims Do Not Support Reunification with India

At present, Bangladesh is thriving economically, primarily attributing to its robust garment industry that has provided employment to millions of Bangladeshis, predominantly women. Additionally, per capita income in Bangladesh is higher than that of Pakistan and even India, and a significant number of Bangladeshis have been lifted out of the poverty line, now entering the middle-income segment. These factors have significantly improved the financial standing of Bangladeshi Muslims, making them less inclined towards reunification with India.

The Role of Religion in Socio-Political Context

The article emphasizes that religious persecution among Bangladesh's Hindu population is a crucial factor driving them towards potential reunification. Never should Hindu communal interests be seen as a justification for such a merger, as this would be highly unethical and against the principles of unity and harmony. Contrastingly, Hindus who are intensely persecuted may find refuge and stability within the larger Indian context, where they can potentially thrive under the protection of a more homogeneous religious majority.

Strategic Implications

The reunification of Bangladesh with India would have several strategic benefits for the East Indian region. The connectivity problem faced by the region could be resolved, creating more efficient transportation and trade routes. An interconnected Bangladesh could alleviate the siledge corridor or the 'Chicken Neck' issue, which currently isolates the northeastern states. The absence of separate customs duties would lead to increased trade and economic integration, and enhanced security measures could be established to monitor border regions, significantly reducing India's defense expenditure and increasing its military focus on other areas.

Security and Financial Stability

The South Asian region faces the challenge of religious diversification. Countries with a significant Muslim population are prone to becoming predominantly Islamic. This observation is based on demographic trends, where Islamic states with high fertility rates among Muslims often see a rise in the demographic advantage. India, with its lower fertility rates, particularly among urban Hindus, is at a risk of becoming less Hindu in the coming decade. Therefore, the reunification of East Bengal could help maintain religious balance and ensure socio-economic stability. Additionally, the unified state would enjoy increased foreign investment, enhanced trade relations, and a robust financial sector that safeguards against external interference.

Conclusion

Despite the challenges, the potential reunification of Bangladesh with India could bring about numerous benefits, including economic prosperity, improved socio-political stability, and enhanced regional security. It would not only address the immediate issues of connectivity and trade but also have long-term strategic implications for the region. The article concludes with the optimistic view that the reunification of East Bengal could pave the way for a more unified and prosperous South Asia.