Tehseen Poonawalla Responds Strongly to "Greater Bangladesh" Tweet

Political analyst Tehseen Poonawalla issued a sharp rebuttal on Sunday to a tweet promoting the idea of a "Greater Bangladesh." The contentious tweet, shared by X user @mdnahidul01, featured an image advocating for an expanded Bangladesh under the caption: "We also have courage. We can dream."

Poonawalla's response was direct and uncompromising. He wrote, "Bro, this dream of yours will turn into your worst nightmare. We treat you as a friend, but if you cross the line, I promise, you will wish you never messed with us. It took us 13 days to create your nation; it will take us 13 minutes to send it to oblivion!! Be clear, bro!!" This remark was a clear reference to India's pivotal role in Bangladesh's liberation during the 1971 war.

The idea of a "Greater Bangladesh" has long been a source of tension. It envisions an expansion of Bangladesh to include areas with significant Bengali-speaking populations, potentially extending into parts of India and Myanmar. While largely dismissed as unrealistic, this concept continues to provoke strong emotional and political reactions.

This exchange comes amid ongoing concerns about minority rights in Bangladesh. Reports of attacks on Hindu temples and religious leaders, including calls for better protection from organizations like ISKCON, have put a strain on India-Bangladesh relations. Both nations have urged for restraint and dialogue, but such incidents continue to test diplomatic ties.

Poonawalla's strong response underscores the sensitivity of expansionist rhetoric in South Asia. While the "Greater Bangladesh" narrative lacks political traction, it holds the potential to inflame regional tensions in an already fragile geopolitical landscape. As these exchanges unfold, maintaining dialogue and addressing underlying grievances will be crucial for fostering peace and stability in the region.