Bangladesh Protests China-Backed Teesta Plan: Why India Fears Its ‘Chicken Neck’ Could Be At Risk | World News
Chattogram (Bangladesh): On the evening of October 19, hundreds of students formed a human chain near Shaheed Minar at Chattogram University. Carrying torches and banners, they marched to the monument demanding immediate implementation of the Teesta Master Plan and equitable sharing of river waters for Bangladesh, according to the government news agency Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS).
The protest organized by Rangpur District students focused on water injustice and Bangladesh’s sovereign control over water resources. Participants chanted slogans emphasizing that the Teesta plan could increase farming, create employment and strengthen the economy in northern Bangladesh. Once the protest ended, demonstrators called for protection of national interests and fair distribution of water for Teesta River-dependent regions.
Torchlight rallies were previously held in five northern regions and thousands of people demanded the immediate implementation of the master plan.
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Teesta Master Plan and India’s Concerns
The Chinese-backed master plan is seen in Dhaka as an alternative to the long-stalled water sharing agreement with India. Experts in India were alarmed by the plan’s proximity to the Chicken Neck corridor, the narrow stretch connecting northeastern India to the rest of the country.
The Ganga water sharing agreement signed between India and Bangladesh in 1996 will expire in 2026 and unilateral moves by Dhaka could affect India’s water security and regional cooperation. The Teesta River originates in Sikkim, passes through West Bengal and joins the Brahmaputra (Jamuna) in Bangladesh.
Dhaka blamed India for holding back water during dry seasons, affecting irrigation and daily needs, and increasing floods during monsoons.
Bangladesh Moves Forward with Chinese Support
In March, Bangladesh’s interim government led by Muhammad Yunus requested a 50-year river management plan from China, citing its expertise in water management. Chinese companies are now set to join the project and Dhaka is asking for 6,700 crore taka for the first phase. Several political parties, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), announced their support.
Former Cabinet Secretary Kabir Bin Anwar stated that the plan would allow Bangladesh to build a large reservoir to reduce dependence on India during dry seasons.
Teesta Water Dispute
The dispute centers on how the waters of the Teesta River are shared. While Bangladesh seeks adequate water for agriculture and daily use, India, especially West Bengal, has been expressing concerns about water scarcity during the dry months. Despite decades of talks since the 1990s, no agreement has been reached, and objections from West Bengal have consistently stalled progress.
In 2024, then Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina stated that progress with China was preferable to continuing negotiations with India.
Security Implications for India
Teesta Master Plan is located near Chicken Neck area. India is also wary of the potential Chinese presence near Lalmonirhat airbase, but the Bangladeshi military claims the facility is for national purposes and aviation training only.
Indian strategic analysts have warned that China’s involvement could enable surveillance of India’s military installations, troop movements and critical infrastructure. Energy and environment expert Kalol Mustafa wrote in the Dhaka-based Daily Star that India is afraid of Chinese personnel at the project site near the Chicken Neck corridor.
Indian analysts emphasized that the activation of the Lalmonirhat air base with Chinese participation could significantly increase aerial surveillance capabilities over Indian forces and facilities.
Political Dimensions
Protests demanding implementation of the China-backed Teesta Master Plan are emerging months ahead of general elections in Bangladesh. Political parties are likely to use this issue to consolidate support, while the BNP is expected to use it for political gains.
The government faces a complex challenge as the Teesta’s water resources are both strategically sensitive and politically charged.
