Anti-India Slogans Return in Bangladesh as PM Tarique Rahman Faces Protests Over Power and Inflation

Protests have erupted in Dhaka, Bangladesh, led by the National Citizen Party (NCP) amid growing public anger over domestic challenges, including a prolonged power crisis, inflation, and fuel shortages. The demonstrations, held in front of the National Museum on Friday, featured anti-India slogans and demands for the resignation of key cabinet ministers.

According to reports from outlets such as India Today and Prothom Alo, NCP convenor Nahid Islam and MP Hasnat Abdullah addressed the gathering. The event highlighted a mix of domestic grievances directed at Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's government and rhetoric regarding bilateral relations with India.

Key Drivers of the Protest

• Domestic Pressures: Demonstrators pointed to high inflation, estimated at around 8.5% in 2026 by the World Bank, alongside increasing energy costs and gas shortages linked to Middle Eastern supply disruptions.
• Economic Strain: Protesters highlighted the impact of power outages on garment factory production, rising poverty figures, and widening gaps between wages and commodity prices.
• Political Demands: NCP leaders called for the immediate resignation of the Home and Energy ministers, threatening further nationwide agitations if the demands are not met.

Diplomatic and Regional Concerns

Speakers at the rally raised various geopolitical issues, including the upcoming expiration of the 30-year Ganga Water Sharing Treaty in December. NCP leaders asserted the need for a fair renegotiation of water allocation at the Farakka Barrage to safeguard livelihoods in Bangladesh. Additionally, speakers made unverified claims regarding border incidents and regional minority issues, which lacked documented evidence or official substantiation from independent sources.

Observers note that while the BNP government led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman assumed power in February, economic hardships have triggered renewed street protests and familiar political rhetoric.