ARCHIVES
VOL. 2, ISSUE 1 (2026)
The consent deficit: India’s struggle to influence public narratives in Bangladesh
Authors
Balaram Swain
Abstract
India–Bangladesh relations are often seen as historically close, as cultural
affinity and linguistic similarity have shaped the relationship between India
and Bangladesh. India’s role in the Bangladesh Liberation War was the founding
stone of India–Bangladesh relations. Despite close economic cooperation, trade,
and connectivity between the two countries, anti-India narratives have
increased in recent years. This article examines the paradox between the deep
economic and cultural legacy shared by both countries and the rising mistrust
and anti-India sentiment in Bangladesh. It argues that relations between
countries are not shaped only by historical events or state-level cooperation,
but are increasingly influenced by public perspectives, domestic political
competition, and the evolving idea of national identity. In this context, the
article examines how public discourse in Bangladesh influences foreign policy
perceptions and affects its relations with India. The gradual decline of the
political legacy associated with Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, generational changes in
historical memory, and the strategic use of nationalist rhetoric by political
actors have contributed to narratives that sometimes portray India as a
dominant regional power. These narratives can overshadow growing economic
cooperation and diplomatic engagement between the two countries. By examining
the relationship between historical memory, domestic politics, and public
discourse, the article highlights how perception gaps continue to shape
India–Bangladesh relations today.
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Pages:156-159
How to cite this article:
Balaram Swain "The consent deficit: India’s struggle to influence public narratives in Bangladesh". International Journal of Research in All Subject, Vol 2, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 156-159
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