-Friday World February 17, 2026
Bangladesh's interim government chief and Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus resigned on Monday. But even as he stepped down from power, he delivered one more statement that has unsettled India. In his farewell televised address, Yunus referred to Nepal, Bhutan, and India's northeastern states—known as the 'Seven Sisters'—without naming India at all. This came just ahead of the new government formation, with BNP's Tarique Rahman set to take oath as Prime Minister on Tuesday.
Hidden Message in the Farewell Speech In his address, Yunus stated: "Our open sea is not just a geographical boundary—it is an open door for Bangladesh to connect with the global economy. Together with Nepal, Bhutan, and the Seven Sisters, this region holds immense economic potential."
The term 'Seven Sisters' refers to India's seven northeastern states: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura. By grouping these Indian states alongside independent nations like Nepal and Bhutan, and omitting any mention of India, analysts see this as a subtle challenge to India's sovereignty. These states are an integral part of India, yet Yunus presented them as a separate entity with vast economic opportunities accessible through Bangladesh.
He further emphasized that through economic zones, trade agreements, and duty-free market access, the region could become a global manufacturing hub. This framing positions Bangladesh as the central connectivity point, portraying India's northeastern states as 'landlocked' areas dependent on Bangladesh's maritime access.
Not the First Time—Pattern of Controversial Remarks This is not the first instance of Yunus using such language about the 'Seven Sisters'. During his March 2025 visit to China, he said: "India's Seven Sisters states are landlocked. They have no access to the sea. We are the guardian of the ocean for this entire region. There are immense possibilities for China's economy here. China can manufacture many things here and supply them worldwide."
At that time, he positioned Bangladesh as the 'maritime guardian' for the region and invited Chinese investment, which sparked strong reactions in India as it appeared to treat India's northeast as separate or extendable to Chinese economic influence.
In August 2024, Yunus had warned that instability in Bangladesh could spill over to Myanmar, the 'Seven Sisters', and even West Bengal. These repeated references have consistently heightened tensions in India-Bangladesh relations.
End of Interim Government and New Beginning Yunus's interim government was formed after the July 2024 uprising that ousted Sheikh Hasina's administration. During his tenure, elections took place, resulting in a landslide victory for the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Tarique Rahman, son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, will assume the role of Prime Minister on Tuesday.
In his farewell speech, Yunus claimed his government had freed Bangladesh from a "submissive" foreign policy. He said the country is now confident, active, and committed to protecting its independent interests based on sovereignty, national dignity, and pride. He highlighted the July National Charter as his biggest achievement, stating it would forever block the return of fascism if implemented.
Domestically, however, his government faced criticism for failing to adequately protect minorities (especially Hindus) and restore full democratic norms. While he leaned on nationalist rhetoric in his exit address, the 'Seven Sisters' reference has emerged as a major point of concern for India.
Implications for India This statement raises questions about the security and connectivity of India's northeastern states. India is actively pursuing projects like the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project to link the northeast with Bangladesh and beyond. Yunus's remarks suggest Bangladesh seeks to position itself as the primary hub for sub-regional economic cooperation, potentially sidelining India.
With the new BNP-led government taking charge, there is hope for improved India-Bangladesh ties. However, Yunus's parting words could reopen old wounds. Experts argue that for regional stability, Bangladesh should prioritize cooperation with India rather than provocative statements that create unnecessary tension.
As Bangladesh enters a new political phase, this final message from Yunus serves as a warning to India. Will the incoming government adopt a more balanced approach on these sensitive issues? Only time will tell.
Sajjadali Nayani ✍
Friday World February 17, 2026
