Intense discussions have begun in diplomatic circles regarding former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's interactions with several world leaders on the sidelines of the recently held BRICS Summit in India. Political analysts have particularly paid attention to an alleged nearly 20-minute phone call between her and Russian President Vladimir Putin. A report by the weekly Organiser—known as the mouthpiece of the RSS, the ideological parent organization of India's ruling party BJP—claims this call took place in the presence of India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Although there has been no official confirmation from India, Russia, or Sheikh Hasina, the event has sparked significant curiosity in regional geopolitics.

The Situation in Bangladesh and India's Security Concerns

Since the political transition in Bangladesh in August 2024, India has been reviewing the evolving situation from a security perspective. Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has already taken active measures regarding overall stability in South Asia and the protection of investments made by various countries in Bangladesh. India is attempting to convey to major investor nations—including China and Russia—that any long-term instability in Bangladesh could pose a risk to the security of the entire region. Against this backdrop, the need for a stable environment and inclusive politics is being highlighted.

reached Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant and Russian Interests

A major reason behind Russian President Vladimir Putin's interest in the current situation in Bangladesh is the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, built at a cost of nearly $12 billion. This is not merely an infrastructure development project; rather, it is the cornerstone of Russia's long-term economic and technological presence in South Asia. Following political shifts in Syria and Venezuela, along with US sanctions, ensuring the sustainability of the Rooppur project has become extremely crucial for Russia. Currently, due to complexities in financial transactions caused by US sanctions, alternative payment methods (such as in Indian Rupees) are under discussion—a context in which India's role as a strategic partner to both Russia and Bangladesh is significant.

Dhaka's Shift in Stance and the Message of a 'Relationship Reset'

Rapid shifts were observed in the diplomatic arena shortly after Bangladesh's non-participation in the BRICS summit. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its intention to 'reset' existing bilateral relations with India and elevate them to new heights. According to diplomatic observers, the cumulative impact of Russia's active strategic stance, the future of the Rooppur project, and India's security concerns may be playing an effective role behind Dhaka's new India-oriented foreign policy and diplomatic messaging.

A New Chapter in Regional Diplomacy

According to the analysis by Organiser, these diplomatic developments occurring in rapid succession signal a new equation in South Asian politics. Even if officially unconfirmed, discussions surrounding the alleged Putin-Hasina phone conversation and India's mediating position demonstrate that the geopolitical importance shared among Russia, India, and Bangladesh concerning the Rooppur Nuclear Project and regional security has now taken center stage in international diplomacy.

Author: Dr. Abul Hasnat Milton, Journalist, Political Analyst, and Chief Editor, The Source News Bangla