Despite political turmoil in Bangladesh following the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government in August 2024 and the new regime’s anti-India stance, India maintained uninterrupted power supply to its neighbor through established cross-border infrastructure. Over the years, both countries had built a robust energy partnership involving pipelines, power grids, and joint infrastructure crucial for Bangladesh’s economy.
Concerns arose about potential risks to this energy partnership due to the political realignment in Dhaka. However, even as communication between New Delhi and Dhaka faced challenges in September 2024, India sustained its power exports to Bangladesh at consistent levels. Official data from India’s National Load Despatch Centre on September 18, 2024, revealed that nearly 47.7 million units of electricity were supplied to Bangladesh in a single day, showcasing the resilience of the energy ties between the two nations amidst political uncertainties.
The deep-rooted India-Bangladesh power relationship had evolved beyond reliance on specific leaders’ goodwill or diplomatic warmth by 2024. It was underpinned by long-term agreements, technical coordination mechanisms, and interconnected infrastructure, safeguarding both countries from immediate disruptions and substantial costs in case of a breakdown. The interdependence was crucial for Bangladesh’s industrial, healthcare, and urban sectors, which heavily relied on Indian electricity imports for consistent power supply.
The energy system’s continuity was attributed to institutional frameworks, contractual obligations, and operational mechanisms that transcended political fluctuations. This stability was particularly significant for Bangladesh, grappling with economic fragility, high fuel costs, and institutional trust issues post the political transition. The uninterrupted power supply played a vital role in sustaining industrial operations, averting potential crises, and supporting the new administration during a critical phase.
India’s decision not to exploit its leverage during Bangladesh’s political transition was commendable. Despite the vulnerability of a country reliant on energy imports from its neighbor, India refrained from exerting pressure, honoring existing commitments and treating the energy relationship independently from political complexities. This diplomatic approach, characterized by restraint and continuity, underscored the strength and resilience of the bilateral energy ties.
