Is Yunus Aligning with China to Revive Bangladesh's Airbase?
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Synopsis
The reactivation of Lalmonirhat airbase by Bangladesh's interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, raises serious security concerns. Experts warn of increased Chinese involvement, which could alter the regional dynamics significantly. Will this move jeopardize the balance of power in the Indo-Bangla border area?
Key Takeaways
- Lalmonirhat airbase has historical and strategic significance.
- Experts are concerned about Chinese military presence.
- Yunus's comments have sparked backlash in India.
- Bangladeshi officials claim no foreign involvement in operations.
- Geographical vulnerabilities exist on both sides of the border.
Dhaka/New Delhi, May 27 (NationPress) The revival of the Lalmonirhat airbase in Bangladesh, ostensibly for Chinese purposes, under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, has raised significant alarms regarding the security of the region, as pointed out by numerous experts.
Constructed in 1931 during British rule and utilized briefly in World War II, the airbase in the Rangpur division remained mostly dormant until the 1950s. Situated merely 20 km from the Indian border and in proximity to the Siliguri corridor, often referred to as the 'Chicken's Neck', it previously served as a strategic airbase for operations in Myanmar and other Southeast Asian nations.
In 2019, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina sanctioned the establishment of a Bangladesh Aerospace and Aviation University at this airbase, which is currently operational under the auspices of the Bangladesh Air Force.
However, under the governance of Yunus, there appears to be a shift towards resuming full aerial operations with heightened Chinese involvement, raising serious concerns among Indian security agencies.
Trustworthy sources have revealed that Chinese officials have visited the Lalmonirhat airbase following Yunus's recent trip to China, where he requested Beijing's assistance in developing a civilian airport there.
Experts believe the airbase could evolve into a comprehensive air operations center, bolstering Chinese air capabilities near the Indo-Bangla border, potentially granting China real-time access to India's military and civilian activities in the Siliguri Corridor through rapid signal acquisition and data processing.
Despite these concerns, a senior Bangladeshi Army officer, during a media event on Sunday, refuted claims regarding Chinese involvement at the airbase. Brig Gen Nazim-ud-Daula stated, "The airport is being revived to meet national needs, including the Aerospace University. I possess no information regarding Chinese involvement. We assure that no foreign entity will be permitted to operate in a manner that jeopardizes our security or national interests."
During his visit to China, Yunus labeled India's northeast as 'landlocked' and characterized Bangladesh as the region's 'only guardian of the ocean'.
These remarks have sparked considerable backlash from India, with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma categorizing them as 'offensive and strongly condemnable'.
On May 25, Sarma reiterated on social media that those who 'habitually threaten' India concerning the 'chicken neck corridor' should be aware that Bangladesh has two such narrow strips of land that are 'far more vulnerable'.
Sarma stated, 'First is the 80 Km North Bangladesh Corridor- from Dakhin Dinajpur to South West Garo Hills. Any disruption here can completely isolate the entire Rangpur division from the rest of Bangladesh. Second is the 28 km Chittagong Corridor, from South Tripura till the Bay of Bengal. This corridor, smaller than India’s chicken neck, is the only link between Bangladesh’s economic capital and political capital.'
'I am merely presenting geographical facts that some may forget. Just like India’s Siliguri Corridor, our neighboring country is also embedded with two narrow corridors of theirs.'
Point of View
It is crucial to remain unbiased while reporting on sensitive geopolitical matters. The reactivation of the Lalmonirhat airbase should be viewed through the lens of national interest and regional stability, ensuring that any foreign partnerships do not compromise Bangladesh's sovereignty or security.
NationPress
09/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Lalmonirhat airbase?
The Lalmonirhat airbase has historical significance and strategic importance due to its proximity to the Indian border and the Siliguri corridor, potentially impacting regional security.
Why are experts concerned about Chinese involvement?
Experts fear that increased Chinese presence at the airbase could allow for heightened surveillance of Indian military operations, thereby destabilizing the balance of power in the region.
What did Yunus say during his trip to China?
During his visit, Yunus referred to India's northeast as 'landlocked' and positioned Bangladesh as the 'only guardian of the ocean' in the region, which drew criticism from Indian officials.
How has the Bangladeshi government responded to these concerns?
Bangladeshi officials, including Brig Gen Nazim-ud-Daula, have denied any Chinese involvement, asserting that the airbase's revival is solely for national needs.
What are the geographical vulnerabilities mentioned by Assam's Chief Minister?
Sarma highlighted two narrow corridors in Bangladesh that could pose vulnerabilities similar to India's Siliguri corridor, emphasizing the need for caution in regional rhetoric.
