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Original Research
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SUBMITED
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PUBLISHED
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VOLUME
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CITATION
COPYRIGHT
© 2025 Original content from this work may be used under the terms
of the creative commons attributes 4.0 License.
The Bangladesh crisis: a
wake-up call for south Asia
Santa Bahadur Thapa
Tri-Chandra Multiple Campus, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal
Abstract:
Eliminating Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in
Bangladesh sparked protests, and military intervention
in South Asia is a significant factor. Using a qualitative
methodology that combines document analysis and a
review of various literature, this study looks into the
reasons behind the crisis and how events unfolded by
different actors involved and ended between countries
within the region.
Results show the steady decay of democratic standards
during the 15 years of Hasina's reign, with suppression
of speech, curtailment of dissent, and election rigging.
Low-level discontent caused by intractable socio-
economic inequities, rising prices, and unemployment
combined with ethnic issues (not least discrimination
against minorities) increased social tensions. The crisis
was further complicated by external interference from
regional powers, particularly India and China, which
challenged the sovereignty of Bangladesh.
Reservation schemes meant to uplift these marginalized
groups were subverted for political advantage, based on
which tensions and inequality only increased. The crisis
highlights the visceral need for democratic norms,
inclusive governance and equity, and resilience to
external interference. It details the regional
consequences of the crisis, which range from potential
spill-over in neighboring states to disruption of regional
trade and investment to possible rising instability. It
urges South Asian countries to lower their political
temperature, re-commit to democratic norms and
values, strengthen socioeconomic realities, and
institutionalize regional cooperation to avoid a repeat of
such crises.
Keywords:
Bangladesh, Democracy, Democratic Norms,
Military Intervention, Political Crisis, Protests, South
Asia.
Introduction:
The fall of Bangladeshi Prime Minister
Sheikh Hasina in August 2024 has reverberated across
South Asia, with weeks of student-led protests and civil
unrest, culminating in the army eventually removing her
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from power, leaving the nation adrift and the region
holding its breath (Rahman, 2024; Sharma, 2024). The
culmination of her 15 years in power
—
during which
Bangladesh has achieved unprecedented economic
growth and development since independence in 1971
—
brings deep fears for the future of democracy and
stability, not only in Bangladesh but for much of Asia
South. It has dived the nation into a gloomy sort of
uncertainty, anticlimactic bringing back the political
stagnation and instability that Bangladesh has dealt
with in most of history (The Daily Star, 2024). This was
"a huge blow to democracy in South Asia" (The Hindu,
2024).
Bangladesh has had a lengthy and often violent
political past filled with coups, killings, and
authoritarianism. However, the current crisis is
different: It combines mass street power with military
intrusion into civilian areas of operations and the
fantastic appointment of Nobel Prize winner
Muhammad Yunus to head a government temporarily.
The protests were "the largest and most sustained
anti-government demonstrations in Bangladesh's
history" (The New York Times, 2024). The military
intervention is "a dire precedent for the region" (The
Kathmandu Post, 2024).
This crisis faced its nascence over the years, where, on
the one hand, with an exclusive focus on economic
development, Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh
Hasina strayed her government away from resident-
oriented democracy by rising authoritarianism through
unbridled
suppression
of
dissenting
voice(s),
revocation of freedom of speech and assembly along
with the battering and twisting over the democratic
process. The erosion of democratic norms and
institutions paved the way for discontent to grow,
finally boiling over into mass protests due to a
combination of socioeconomic grievances, ethnic and
religious divisions, and rising levels of frustration with
the political elite. There has been a "shrinking space for
democratic norms, the emergence of illiberal forces,
and an unpredictable political environment" in
Bangladesh (Diamond, 2023, pp. 25-37). This erosion of
democratic space has directly limited the critical
components of "polyarchy"
–
participation and
opposition
–
that a healthy, stable democracy relies on
(Dahl, 1971).
Set initially off by students' pleas for changes in
education reforms, the protests have rapidly
developed into an all-encompassing movement with
the support of civil society groups, opposition parties,
and some leaders from the ruling Awami League. Such
mobilization expresses an increasing challenge to
democracy and the growing populist backlash against
the established political regime (Muller, 2011).
Frustration over the lack of political engagement and
growing centralization of power among a few is
demonstrated in the protests occurring in Bangladesh"
(Mehta, 2023).
The protests' size and intensity surprised the Hasina
government, revealing a softer underbelly to what it
thought was power it could lean back on. The military,
which had not intervened until this point, came in to
'bring order back' at the helm of violence engulfing the
situation. The military move, however, turned in a
practical sense into a coup and made Hasina resign
while paving the way for an interim government led by
Muhammad Yunus -- much respected for his
microfinance and poverty alleviation work. More than
just historical, this intervention illustrates precisely why
we must guard against arbitrary rule and serve other
students of power, showcasing the pitfalls of opening
such a wide legal door to executive discretion (Dicey,
1885).
Yunus, a political outsider without prior experience in
government, was brought on board to restore some
semblance of stability and credibility to the beleaguered
political system. This hints at alternative leadership
when a political crisis strikes and the hope for a clean
slate (Paris, 2002). Economic and social change is a
powerful force that creates transition pressures and
new leadership groups (Lipset, 1960).
The Bangladesh crisis has deep regional significance as
other South Asian countries continue to confront the
same problems: failed democracy, entrenched socio-
economic disparities, extensive ethnic and religious
polarization, and potential external interference. This
crisis was a sober reminder of the tenuousness of
democracy, political stability, and the fragility of politics
across the region. It highlights the necessity for South
Asian countries to maintain democratic standards,
promote inclusive governance, address socio-economic
inequalities, and uphold non-interference in internal
matters by external forces.
It specifically focuses on the root causes of the
aforementioned political crisis, the role of different
actors, and its implications for other South Asian
countries. It also aims to provide a comprehensive
analysis of this critical issue. This study aims to provide
insight into the crisis and potential preventive strategies
so that challenges of democracy and stability facing the
region are appropriately addressed by exploring these
factors in connection with the overall work.
RESEARCH METHOD
The document analysis and literature review used in this
study are based on holistic qualitative research
approaches to learning about the complex political
environment of Banglades
ẖ
. They rely on close
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reading
—
not of secondary literature but of original
documents:
government
papers,
international
organizations, and the local press. With these
resources, we learn about the socio-political situation
from eyewitnesses, allowing us to analyze why this
crisis persists.
This diverse methodology allows for a more
comprehensive, thorough account of Bangladesh's
political crisis. By combining qualitative data based on
primary sources with relevant theory from scholarly
literature, it hopes to build a holistic understanding of
the crisis, its underlying drivers, and potential regional
outcomes.
FINDINGS AND DISCUSSIONS
The Gradual Erosion of Democratic Norms: The Slow
Disintegration of Democracy: The 2024 political crisis
in Bangladesh did not develop overnight but was the
culmination of a long and sustained infiltration of
democratic norms and institutions by Hasina. Through
candlelight and protests, crackdowns and elections
frauds
—
this decline manifested itself over the years
in a united assault on democratic values by curtailing
free speech, obstructing free assembly, stifling dissent
at every opportunity possible (scapegoating critics as
traitors), and meddling with elections. The Hasina
government was less and less willing to hear criticism
over time, throwing opponents in jail and harassing
others by any means at its disposal. These tactics range
from repressive laws such as the Digital Security Act
that stifle online speech to jailing and arresting
journalists, activists, and political opposition figures
(Ahmed, 2023).
Even third-world countries with good people are still
facing lousy rulings and widespread human rights
abuses
–
that is extrajudicial killings, enforced
disappearances, and torture committed by security
forces against women with impunity (Human Rights
Watch, 2024). In illiberal regimes, power protection
and reproduction occur through coercion and fear
rather
than
democratic
participation
and
accountability (Muller, 2011)).
Electoral manipulation further eroded democratic
governance
in
Bangladesh.
Schemes
like
gerrymandering, voter suppression, and intimidation
of rival candidates question the legitimacy of elections.
There were many irregularities and rigging charges in
the 2018 and 2023 elections (The Hindu, 2024). As a
result, public confidence in democratic institutions is
undermined, and people may lose faith in the electoral
process as a means of peaceful political transition
(Paris, 2002).
These authoritarian tendencies added up to the slow
undermining of democratic norms and institutions that
would eventually breed hostility, resentment, and
instability. Illiberal tendencies and the degradation of
democratic norms contributed to a fragile political
environment in Bangladesh, facilitating the prospect of
democratic collapse (Diamond, 2023, pp. 25
–
37). This
closing up of democratic space limited the critical
features of polyarchy
–
participation and opposition
–
necessary for a democracy to function healthily and
sustainably (Dahl, 1971). Dissent suppression and
election manipulation undermine the rule of law and
foster an environment where arbitrary rule and political
instability gain a foothold (Dicey, 1885).
The seeds of the Hasina government's defeat were
planted through its gradual slide into authoritarianism
despite economic growth. The government's efforts to
weaken the basics of democratic rule and instill fear
further enraged the masses, laying a foundation for the
2024
political
debacle.
While
the
economic
performance of these nations presents a silver lining,
the crisis highlights that democratic norms and
institutions matter much more in the long run, lest we
embark on a journey into authoritarianism.
Economic inequality: Bangladesh has been highly
developed recently but has a long-standing socio-
economic disparity, which led to the 2024 political crisis.
The poverty reduction has been impressive, falling from
48.9% in 2000 to 18.7% in 2022, but wealth remains
concentrated among a small elite group (World Bank,
2024). About 30% of the national income is controlled
by the wealthiest 5% of households, while under 1%
goes to the poorest 5%, which nurtures a sense of
injustice and resentment among the marginalized (BBS,
2022).
Growing inequality, along with inflation and
unemployment, has hit the pockets of citizens hard,
eroding their purchasing power and giving rise to social
discontent. This hopelessness and despair manifest as a
high youth unemployment rate of 12.8% (International
Labor Organization, 2023) amidst an inflation rate
peaking at a decade-high figure of 9.52% in August 2024
(Trading Economics, 2024).
Government responses, including social safety net
programs, have been scrutinized for their lack of
comprehensiveness, effectiveness, and progressivity
(Rahman,
2023).
This
has
fueled
people's
disenchantment with the political establishment. Thus,
socioeconomic disparity has threatened to maintain
quietness and democratic development in Bangladesh.
Economic growth can lead to social tensions and
instability if pursued without equity (Sen, 2000).
Economic hardship and deprivation trigger social
protest and political instability (Lipset, 1960)).
The crisis in Bangladesh has reiterated our regional
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reality, reiterating the importance of inclusive growth
and fair resource distribution in maintaining social
harmony and political stability. The political crisis is
rooted in the inability to manage these socioeconomic
challenges. It is a significant risk to the country's future
(Mahbubani, 2018).
Ethnic and Religious Tensions: Even if the Bangladeshi
constitution guarantees equal rights and duties to all
citizens irrespective of their race or religion, it is
difficult for Bangladesh to live in harmony with its
diverse population, where ethnic and religious issues
are raised from time to time. These tensions,
magnified by the Hasina government's perceived
favoritism towards the majority Bengali Muslim
population against the minority non-Bengali Muslims
(most of whom belong to the Mistry ethnic group),
have not only led to social unrest but also made a
significant impact on the 2024 political crisis (Mohsin,
2022).
Religious minorities, especially Hindus, have been
subject to discrimination and violence; they have faced
attacks on their temples and forced conversion to
Islam, as well as land grabbing (Rahman, 2023). As a
result, this persecution sowed fear and insecurity,
which led to social unrest and distancing from the state
(ASK, 2024). Likewise, the provision of land to ethnic
minorities has not only created discrimination but also
conflict over ownership (Mohsin, 2022).
This exclusion of minorities from the national
framework has eroded national cohesion and
ownership (Wakeel, 2005). Excluding groups adversely
affects social cohesion and augments conflict (Sen,
2006). The Hasina government's inaction on minority
grievances only added fuel to the fire of communal
tensions and paved the way for later political turmoil.
In addition, growing religious extremism, along with
the perception among a large section of the population
that the government is appeasing Islamist outfits/
forces, has also led to polarization and aggravated
intergroup/ community tensions (Chowdhury, 2024).
This type of appeasement enhances radicalized and
insecure advent on behalf of minorities (Jaffrelot,
2016).
These factors have been primarily responsible for a
deeply divided society and, ultimately, the 2024
political crisis, with these tensions simmering
underneath the surface. The crisis highlights the
necessity of redressing ethnic and religious grievances
while advancing inclusive governance if stability and
social cohesion are ever to be ensured in Bangladesh.
The Dangers of Foreign Interference: Notably, the 2024
political crisis in Bangladesh was primarily of internal
origin and reinforced by external factors, especially
those concerning India and China. This intrusiveness
deepened
internal
political
rifts,
destabilized
Bangladesh as a nation-state, and caused its sovereignty
to suffer.
Historically, India was crucial in Bangladeshi politics -
being the regional power and Bangladesh's neighbor.
The perception of Indian support for the Awami League
has led to resentment among some Bangladeshis due to
fears that their country's sovereignty is being
compromised. The Daily Star claimed that "India's
support for Awami League has engendered the feeling
among many Bangladeshis that India's overt and vocal
support for Awami League is undermining their
country's independence" (Hossain, 2023)). Similarly,
The potential future implications of unfolding political
developments asserted: "India's foreign policy of trying
to influence Bangladesh is risking greater divisions and
instability in that country"(International Crisis Group,
2022).
With increased economic engagement, China has also
inserted political and strategic questions into the
Bangladeshi dialogue. India has long been suspicious of
China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which New Delhi
perceives as an effort by Beijing to take control over the
region. India has reasons to be worried about China's
expanding commercial and strategic footprint on
Bangladeshi soil, which it considers a challenge to its
regional hegemony (Varma, 2024). This strategic
competition between India and China has turned South
Asia into a "new Great Game" where smaller nations like
Bangladesh are stuck (Mahbubani, 2018).
Such external intervention has heightened the
polarization in the domestic political complex, further
eroding Bangladesh's sovereignty and autonomy.
Bangladesh faces pressure from extra-regional powers
to suit its global strategic interests, which restricts policy
alternatives and hampers the pursuit of independent
foreign policy. "The increasing role of extra-regional
players in Bangladesh has raised questions about the
country's capacity to determine its future course and
pursue national interests" (Ganguly, 2021, pp. 38
–
52).
In sum, the Bangladesh crisis lays bare that even smaller
South Asian countries cannot rapidly escape the double-
edged sword that is well-intentioned but often frivolous
Geopolitics of the Era in bordering regions. The only way
Bangladesh and its regional neighbors can find peace is
for their rulers to stop misapprehending how countries
should be run: none of those states have a monopoly
over democracy nor the right to dictate who has what
entitlements; proper democratic consolidation will
occur once organizations like the EU or USA do away
with the concept of intervention cloaked by democratic
rhetoric, and instead protect the independence"
—
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minding your own business. At the same time, people
work out how to take care of themselves.
Abuse of Reservation Policy: The political crisis in
Bangladesh, which saw Prime Minister Hasina's shock
resignation in August 2024, highlights the confluence
of social, economic, and political factors that may
contribute to instability within the country. Key among
them is the opportunistic abuse of reservation policies
meant for due redressal and progress of marginalized
communities. Although they are central to the
discourse of social justice and inclusion, the
politicization of these policies, along with well-
documented clientelism and nepotism, has stoked
resentment and turned inequalities into a vector of the
crisis.
For decades, Bangladesh's quota system, which sets
aside a percentage of government jobs and
educational opportunities for certain classes of people,
including ethnic minorities as well as descendants of
freedom fighters, has been a source of intense debate.
Aimed at fostering social equality, it has been derided
for mismanagement, graft, and entrenching casteism.
The quota system has been increasingly used as a
device for political patronage, with the ruling elites
leveraging it towards rewarding supporters and
strengthening their hold on power (Khan, 2022).
Political interpretation distorts reservation policies.
This, in turn, causes the public to lose trust in the
system (Sen, 2005).
Additionally, the abuse of reservation policies has
aggravated multiple groups who believe they have
been denied their rights and benefits. However, many
youths
—
especially from the majority Bengali Muslim
community
—
feel this quota system is unfair and
restricts their opportunities. The quota system is now
a significant grievance among Bangladeshi youth who
believe they suffer from a system biased toward
specific constituencies (Rahman, 2024). Such
resentment can spur social unrest and lead to political
instability (Muller, 2011).
In addition, reservation policies have led many others
to further disadvantageous positions on reservation-
based access, and rather than merit, social networks
dominate the entire process. This has created a sense
of disillusionment among many Bangladeshis who
believe that the system is stacked against them. The
view of being deprived and disadvantaged could
produce riots, which might seem to be an impression
of social unrest or political instability (Lipset, 1960).
Bangladesh deserves to have appropriate reservation
policies to redress historical injustices and ensure
social inclusion; nonetheless, abuse and misutilization
of these policies have substantially aggravated the
recent political crisis. Therefore, politicizing such
policies and claims of large-scale corruption and
nepotism proved a fertile ground for deepening feelings
against those who have not benefitted from their
implementation while enhancing inequalities. The
quota system must be reformatted to ensure equity and
transparency and serve as an incentive for
disadvantaged people. This would address those
problems and prevent further disruption.
Upholding Democratic Norms: The Bangladesh political
crisis reminds us how desperately we need democratic
norms and institutions to keep a democracy healthy and
stable. Those norms include freedom of expression,
assembly, the press, and free and fair elections. Political
instability
—
dictatorship and the crisis of legitimacy that
threatens good governance
—
emerges when this
constellation weakens.
Free speech and protest are essential for people to
share ideas, call elected representatives to account, and
participate in the political system. Limited fundamental
freedoms do not bring about a war of ideas or
information, stifle dissent in hushed tones, and create
an atmosphere where fear flourishes. The fourth pillar
(moral force) explains that free and independent media
are like a backbone to hold the powerful accountable,
expose corruption, and inform the public of the truth.
On the other hand, threats and intimidation of
journalists have undermined media watchdog capacity.
Democracy depends on free and fair elections, which
empower citizens to choose their public representatives
and hold them accountable. Rigging elections by the
incumbent party only shakes the people's faith in the
system and raises doubts about its government.
That underlines the significant need for South Asian
nations, separately and jointly, to reestablish their
dedication to democracy. A decline in democracy's
principles can lead to human rights abuses,
authoritarianism, and chaos.
Promoting Inclusive Governance: While ensuring
socioeconomic equality and facilitating inclusive
governance is a noble vision to aspire to and a
fundamental prerequisite for political unrest prevention
and sustainable stability in Bangladesh and South Asia,
it is unrealistic. Governments should prioritize programs
and policies that ensure fairness in access to essential
goods,
economic
opportunity,
and
political
representation for all citizens regardless of socio-
economic status, race, background, or religion. Not
doing so can lay the groundwork for discontent,
marginalization, and instability (Lipset, 1960).
Outsized vulnerability to political instability is mainly
caused by socioeconomic imbalance, from a sense of
injustice experienced by those with little to no
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opportunity and the marginalization they will likely
endure. In many cases, a considerable part of society's
balance between excluded or disenfranchised people
from growth and growing economies is hardly
regarded as it creates an essential environment to
grow
operations.
Although
Bangladesh
has
experienced rapid economic growth in recent years,
this increased prosperity has not been accompanied by
a similar decline in inequality (World Bank, 2023). This
can lead to dissatisfaction and, in turn, social or
political instability.
Promoting a more inclusive form of governance must
also address economic disparity
—
affording voters a
seat at the political table. This, in turn, means
establishing institutions and apparatuses that allow for
a significant degree of participation by all groups in the
decisions to be taken (Dahl, 1971). However, over the
past few years in Bangladesh, political space has
diminished with further crackdowns on freedom of
speech and assembly and a decline in the quality of
democratic institutions (Ahmed, 2023). The closing of
democratic space can result in political exclusion and
marginalization, which will further breed discontent
and instability.
Additionally, guiding governance must also consider
the discontented populations of ethnic minorities and
religious minorities who are frequently discriminated
against and excluded. Providing these groups with the
same level of access to socio-economic services,
economic livelihood, and political representation will
be vital for building social cohesion and mitigating
social unrest (Sen, 2006). Bangladesh has experienced
more discrimination and violence in recent years,
creating insecurity and alienation (Sharma, 2024).
Excluding demographic groups can and does lead to
social fragmentation and instability.
At the heart of long-term political solutions and
stability is the issue of inclusive governance, a form of
governance that is as much a question of social justice.
Even so, governments should promote policies and
initiatives that directly tackle social inequities, enable
access to citizens' goods, services, and opportunities in
life, and ensure the political inclusiveness of all society
groups. However, whether it is Bangladesh or any
other South Asian country, a more inclusive and just
society can restore the democratic processes at one
end and, most importantly, keep the peace intact for
decades.
Coping with Ethnic and Faith Conflicts: Despite being
endowed with tremendous ethnic, religious, and
cultural diversity, South Asian countries battle tensions
and conflict. Not paying appropriate attention can
transform such tensions into chaos and instability,
risking social cohesion and democratic consolidation
(already troubled). Unity and Inclusive Governance in
Ethnic Conflict Equal rights for all citizens, regardless of
ethnic group or religion, are essential to political
stability and inclusive regional governance.
Communal violence and systemic discrimination against
religious minorities
—
particularly Hindus
—
long in
Bangladesh demonstrate the perils of overlooking
ethnic and sectarian cleavages. Among many reasons,
the perception that the Hasina government was
unaccountable and partisanship of a majority Bengali
Muslim population-oriented state instead of a secular
state that protects minority rights has been one of the
drives behind this recent political turmoil.
India, too, experiences both political and personal
religious polarization/violence, even if it enjoys the
twofold pleasures of equality and secularism in its
constitution. Critics allege that Buddhists of the Bhartiya
Janata Party (BJP) government are marginalizing
religious minorities, be it Muslims or any other
community, and fueling inter-communal violence via its
Hindu nationalist agenda.
While less vulnerable to ethnic and religious segregation
than South Asia, Nepal is not a monolithic population.
The Madhesi community has fought for decades against
the discrimination and exclusion imposed by the hillside
communities who wield political power over the plains
dwellers, holding countless protests to call for greater
autonomy. Therefore, South Asian states must do the
opposite of this by boasting inter-communal harmony
and universal rights for all citizens. It involves reforms at
the institutional and legislative levels and a concerted
effort to stimulate community conversations and
awareness.
Inclusive governance and managing ethnic and religious
tensions are critical for South Asia to maintain social
cohesion and political stability. Isolated violent-minded
people are born only where they do not get an
opportunity to live with individual dignity, otherwise
coexistence of different religions with various kinds
could be the religion itself in South Asia where peace &
stability can be granted if local governments do
promote inter-communal harmony & shall preserve
right of citizenship for all people or citizens thereby this
region at some point will be more equitable society
instead of one identity challenged by the other; every
person shall have his/her very owned rights replacing
vilification/cursing
from
one
side
whereas
stigma/vitiation
actually
from
another
similar
attempted being there no its own right felt upon latter
whom all must stand together collectively resided
permanently entire widely distributed land almost same
way so that he/she would realize secure status about
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existing as equal citizen towards others with precisely
no left/right necessity ought to search just everywhere
because everything must available free & fruitful
joyfully while sharing started and substance alike
already belonged to expand generations succeeded
upwards.
Justice in Reservation: Reservation policies intended to
correct historical injustices and increase social equity
are fraught with controversy, which seemed especially
pertinent given the ongoing political turmoil in
Bangladesh. Though these policies are aimed directly
at lifting marginalized communities, they do
periodically run into a discussion about fairness,
meritocracy, everything that comes along with it, and
even unintended impacts.
The quota system, which allocates specific percentages
of
government
positions
and
educational
opportunities to targeted groups in Bangladesh, has
been a polarizing topic. While purposefully created to
allow the representation of marginalized communities,
the process has been rife with allegations of
corruption, nepotism, and political manipulation
(Ahmed, 2023). The politicization mentioned above
can delegitimize reservation policies and citizens (Sen,
2005). In addition, quotas can create resentment
against those omitted when they unthinkingly do not
make individual meritors (Rahman, 2024).
The difficulty is reconciling historical injustices with the
desire to have everyone on the same level playing field
(Lipset, 1960). One possible compromise is to use a less
rigid and more focused method that targets the
neediest populations, pairing quotas with scholarships
and support programs (Muller, 2011). These efforts
focus on providing equal opportunity equality, not
justifying group-based advantages.
However, reservation rules must also find a middle
path to be equitable. We must remedy this history with
justice and grace through affirmative action
—
it must
be implemented fairly, strategically, and transparently.
A more focused and nuanced approach might ensure
these policies serve the disadvantaged and move us
closer to a just society.
Struggling Back Against Intervention: The 2024 political
crisis in Bangladesh, therefore, mirrors the struggle for
survival that each South Asian state is faced with to
balance their need for regional cooperation and
collective growth while preserving their national
identity, sovereignty, and democratic ethos. However,
enforcing national decision-making with good behavior
within shared challenges and stable regional trends
does not mean compromising or sacrificing any
nation's capacity to act on its behalf based on
democratic principles. Secondly, resistance to external
meddling in national affairs is essential to protect
national sovereignty and foster real democracy.
South Asia has historically been beleaguered by great
power politics, with outside powers competing to
control these minor states for their strategic gains. Such
interference may involve diplomatic pressure tactics,
economic leverage, and covert support for political
actors. Smaller South Asian states are often caught in
the web of great power competition, making their polity
susceptible to manipulation; their political sovereignty
is jeopardized, and democratic institutions are
threatened (Ganguly, 2021, pp. 38
–
52).
The Bangladesh crisis highlighted a risk of external
interference. However, internal factors were the main
drivers. Regional powers
—
especially India and China
—
inflamed tensions, which added to the difficulty of
finding a solution. Concerns were raised about foreign
interference in Bangladesh's political affairs, as many
viewed India as supporting the Awami League. China
was also coming to play an increasingly relevant
economic role (Bhattacharya, 2024).
Outside meddling can take diligent steps to bring
democracy and weaken public trustworthiness in
institutions. The belief that foreign actors are meddling
in elections or subverting the political process can
alienate citizens from the governmental system and
result in social agitation. Foreign meddling in elections
can de-legitimate democracy and create instability and
violence (Paris, 2002).
A multifaceted approach is necessary to withstand
external interference. Different South Asian countries
should avoid overreliance on one particular outside
power, forming democracy, transparency, and
accountability in the governance system and
diversifying economic and diplomatic linkages. Who
talked about an energized and robust civil society being
necessary for defending democratic ideals against both
internal and external attacks (Dahl, 1971)).
Regional organizations such as the South Asian
Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) can play
an essential role in engaging member states in dialogue
and cooperation while developing norms and
mechanisms to prevent the invocations of third-party
interference. According to Muller (2011), collective
security and shared democratic values promoted by
regional organizations can limit external interference
and protect regional stability (p. 320).
Non-interference from the outside world is critical to
effectively
maintaining
national
sovereignty,
democratic norms, and regional stability in South Asia.
Regional cooperation is essential but must never come
at the cost of one country's right to forge its path and
defend its democratic orientation. South Asian
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countries must build a more resilient and independent
regional
order
by
strengthening
democratic
institutions, fostering transparency and accountability,
and diversifying partnerships.
The Bangladesh Crisis and its Impacts
The Bangladesh political crisis has profound South
Asian regional implications. It illustrates the
vulnerability
of
democracy,
its
foundational
institutions, and the comparative nature of regional
political stability. This crisis has not only overshadowed
Bangladesh's path to democracy but also alarmed
neighboring countries suffering similar problems about
possible spillover effects.
Regional Implications: The Bangladesh fiasco has
shaken South Asia, and neighboring countries
monitoring the situation will not be unaware of its
fallout in their internal politics. This crisis has further
exposed the fragility of democratic institutions in the
region, and the fear is always that political instability
will create a domino effect involving other countries.
Even more dangerously, "the crisis in Bangladesh is not
entirely a domestic matter; there are regional
ramifications
if
undemocratic
forces
and
circumstances take hold in any nation" (Ganguly, 2021,
pp. 38-52).
India
—
one of the major powers in South Asia and
Bangladesh's immediate neighbor
—
pays particular
attention because of the crisis and its probable
repercussions on India. The crisis has heightened
concerns about another influx of refugees into India
since political instability and economic fragility in
Bangladesh could cause a migration surge. India is
watching the Bangladesh crisis and fears a spillover of
refugees; resources in border areas could become
scarcer, fueling social tensions (The Hindu, 2024).
More generally, Bangladesh's crisis may give a shot in
the arm to anti-democratic elements in India, who
want to weaken secularism and nourish a Hindu
nationalist movement. The crisis in Bangladesh could
now be a lesson or cautionary tale for India, a reality
check about the potential risks of majoritarianism and
the decline of democratic norms (Mehta, 2023).
The Bangladesh crisis has also caused fears about
higher instability in more South Asian countries like
Nepal and Sri Lanka, which are struggling with their
own political and economic qualms. This could
strengthen anti-democratic movements in these
countries and weaken attempts to bolster democratic
institutions and foster social cohesion. The crisis in
Bangladesh should serve as a clarion call for Nepal
since it reveals the precarious nature of democracy and
hard-earned gains (Thapa, 2024).
Economic Implications: This political crisis in Bangladesh
has a spillover effect not only politically but also
economically for South Asia. This has vast implications
as many South Asian countries trade with Bangladesh,
and the crisis could spill into regional trade and
investment. This crisis will create regional uncertainty
and instability that would discourage the inflow of
foreign investors and break the supply chains crucial for
economic growth across the region. "The political crisis
in Bangladesh may impact regional trade and
investment as businesses might hesitate to invest in a
country grappling with involution"(Ahmed, 2023).
In addition, it may cause a fall in remittances as many
Bangladeshi workers work abroad, which provides
significant livelihood support for the population and
replenishes the foreign exchange reserve. Remittances
from Bangladeshi workers overseas are an essential
source of income for many families and a vital driver of
the economy in Bangladesh (World Bank, 2023).
Security Implications: The renewed political crisis in
Bangladesh raises alarm bells over lingering fears of
growing terrorism and extremism in the region. Such
instability may represent a fertile ground for extremists
to recruit and launch attacks. It has been warned that
extremists may use the crisis to further their interests
(Chowdhury, 2024).
Such a crisis could also fuel a resurgence of religious
extremism in Bangladesh with its spillover impact in
immediate neighboring nations. The phenomenon of
religious extremism in Bangladesh is a regional issue as
it may lead to further radicalization and violence
(Jaffrelot, 2016).
This crisis poses an existential challenge to Bangladesh
and the wider South Asia region as fragile democratic
institutions become susceptible to the spread of
instability
—
a trend we have observed in established
democracies or autocracies. Instead, South Asia needs
to unite and engage with the deeper causes of the crisis
and revitalize democracy activism in the region. The
crisis is a wake-up call for the region; it has revealed that
only through far greater regional cooperation and
rebuilding their connective tissue, shared institutions,
political capacity, and fidelity to democratic rules can
these nations regroup and restore their freedom
(Diamond, 2023, pp. 25-37).
Strengthening
democratic
institutions,
pursuing
inclusive governance, addressing socio-economic
disparities, and countering external interference are
essential mechanisms for developing a more stable
South Asia where democracy thrives and the dividends
of peace and progress are equitably shared with all
citizens.
Results of the Study
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This analysis concludes with a summary of six likely
repercussions that will characterize the 2024 political
crisis in Bangladesh. The fact that the crisis involved
significant revocation of freedom of expression and
assembly, repression against opponents, and electoral
malpractice meant democratic norms and institutions
dissolved. These shrinking spaces have also opened the
door to a fragile political landscape and an increasing
threat of democratic backsliding.
Second, widening socio-economic inequalities have
increased disparity, which leads to disaffection with
society and hatred against authority. With a cost-of-
living crisis, unemployment at record heights, and
inflation out of control, the lives of the poor and middle
classes have worsened significantly, impinging on an
unstable political climate.
Third, the crisis highlights the fragility of democracy
and political peace/ stability in South Asia. Moreover,
it also speaks of a fear that it will spread to surrounding
countries facing the same crises.
Fourth, the crisis also tells South Asian states to restore
their democratic ordinances and governance but
without compromising the socio-economic inequalities
that are kept insulated from extraterritorial powers
intruding into domestic equations.
Finally, the crisis has underscored the importance of
resolving historical ethnoreligious tensions and
building cross-community solidarity while embedding
equal citizenship for all citizens regardless of their
ethnic and religious background.
RECOMMENDATIONS
This study critically examines Bangladesh's political
crisis in 2024 and concludes with a set of essential
recommendations
for
facilitating
democratic
consolidation, stability, and inclusive regional
governance.
Respect for Democratic Norms and Institutions
Upholding the Basic Freedoms: Preserving freedom of
speech, assembly, and press is crucial to a sound
democracy. Governments must avoid threats that
would silence dissent or narrow these freedoms.
Ensuring Free and Fair Elections: The focal point of
democratic governance is free and fair elections. They
are essential to ensure electoral integrity and
resistance to election manipulation and rigging, which
sustains the legitimacy of elections and public
confidence in democratic institutions. They are
essential for preventing the manipulation or rigging of
elections, preserving their integrity and legitimacy, and
rebuilding citizens' trust in democracy.
Revitalizing the Rule of Law: A bold, if not bolder,
commitment to the rule of law needs to be put very
much front and center as a counterpoint against
arbitrary power by rulers that serves to protect and
uphold human rights in all its reigns and forms.
Democracy and accountability require checks in the
form of independent judges and solid laws.
Promoting Meaningful Governance and Overcoming
Socio-economic Inequality
Fostering Inclusive Economic Development: One
important underlying reason for this stability and social
cohesion is to prevent a concentration of resources and
opportunities at the top end. In this context,
policymakers should place political priority on
phylogenetically causing socioeconomic differences by
reducing poverty and fostering a socio-economically
inclusive economy that benefits all citizens.
Encouraging Political Participation: Governance is based
on an inclusive decision-making process and attention
to the participation of all citizens. Governments also
have to create institutions/mechanisms that would
allow all sections of society to participate in the
development process irrespective of caste or religion.
Addressing the Interests of Marginalized Groups:
Inclusive governance means responding to marginalized
groups
—
such as ethnic and religious minorities
—
that
are often ignored. This means constructing universal
systems that provide the essentials of life: health,
economic opportunity, and political voice.
Fostering Inter-Communal Cohesion and Managing
Ethno-Religious Disputes
Protection of Rights of Religious and ethnic minorities:
Governments must ensure the rights of all Religious and
ethnic minorities so They are safe and secure. Always
take more measures to protect them from any violence
or discrimination against them.
Fostering Community Conversation and Awareness:
Promoting interaction between communities in this
context also involves encouraging open conversation
and building awareness of the space they each occupy.
Governments must invest in cross-cultural training and
work through historical grievances so that the trust
gained from people enables cooperation.
Combatting Extremism against Religion: Extremism
towards religion is an international challenge to faith,
stability, and the social life surrounding it unless
governments want to go soft on extremism.
Formulation of Reasoned and Transparent Reservation
Policies
Reservation Must Not Be Corrupt: Reservations must be
transparent and accessible of corruption, favoritism, or
bribery. If governments are to enable this, then this
policy must benefit the communities it seeks to target.
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Reservation Policy: Redressing historical wrongs is
essential, but reservation policy must also consider
merit to allow equal opportunities for all citizens.
Absolute equality of opportunity can be achieved by
combining quotas, scholarships, and support; this is
elegant and objectionable.
Preventing Outside Meddling and Protecting
Independence
Regional organizations, such as SAARC, could, for
example, take initiatives for dialogue and specific
mechanisms to create norms preventing extra-regional
exploitation of sectarian lines and yet protecting
common regional democratic values.
Self-reliance: South Asian countries should not depend
on one external power to the exclusion of others by
choice, with an enhanced degree of autonomy to be
exercised over their respective interests.
Improving the Integrity and Accountability of
Democratic Institutions: Being surrounded by
democratic values that are resilient to external bad
influences, creating transparency and justification for
decisions can surmount those opposing forces.
CONCLUSION
Bangladesh has been on the brink of a multifaceted
political crisis as 2024 approaches, an issue not limited
to Bangladesh alone. Execution reflects how unstable
political stability status quo is an ambiguous reality of
democratic institutions. It highlights the urgent need
for South Asian countries to shore up democratic
practices, establish inclusive governance structures,
mitigate socio-economic disparities through public
provision, and advance inter-communal peace.
This crisis must teach the region that it needs to deal
with the roots of political instability and create more
resilient democratic institutions. South Asian countries
need to celebrate societal differences with further
superior organizational arrangements for an equity-
established society where disparity is praised and
dwelled by uniting shared values and commonality
between individuals.
Bangladesh crisis teaches us that democracy is half a
job. We always have to sacrifice our backs for the
benefit of future generations and stand on guardrails
because genes do not want to be extinct. South Asian
countries must pool their efforts to render the region
more democratic, peaceful, and prosperous.
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