India has expressed careful concern over Bangladesh’s proposal to partner with China on a Teesta‑river development project, according to a spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs. The statement was made in a briefing that reiterated India’s prior communication of its position to Bangladesh officials.
The spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, said that India’s view on the project “has been previously conveyed to the Bangladesh side.” He did not elaborate on the specific issues that prompted the cautious stance, but the remarks come amid growing interest from China in the river’s infrastructure development. The Teesta river, which flows through the Indian state of West Bengal and the Bangladeshi districts of Rangpur and Dinajpur, has long been a point of contention between the two countries over water sharing and usage.
India’s response follows a broader pattern of scrutiny over Chinese involvement in regional infrastructure projects that could affect water security and geopolitical balance. While the Indian government has not issued a formal statement beyond the spokesperson’s comments, the timing suggests a desire to signal disapproval without escalating tensions.
Analysis:
India’s cautious reaction likely reflects concerns about potential shifts in water resource management that could disadvantage Indian users downstream. The Teesta river’s flow is critical for irrigation, hydropower, and domestic use in West Bengal, and any Chinese‑backed development could alter flow regimes or water allocation. By publicly acknowledging that it has already communicated its concerns to Bangladesh, India may be aiming to influence the project’s design or to secure assurances that the project will not undermine India’s water interests. The lack of detailed public comments leaves room for uncertainty about the precise nature of India’s objections, but the statement underscores the strategic sensitivity surrounding transboundary water projects in South Asia.
Sources
Hindustan Times, “India reacts cautiously to Dhaka’s plan to develop Teesta river with China,” 4 July 2026. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-reacts-cautiously-to-dhaka-s-plan-to-develop-teesta-river-with-china-101783094518688.html
Story synopsis gathered from: Hindustan Times – India News — source
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