Why India is losing ground over Bangladesh and Myanmar to regional rivals

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Junaid KathjuJanuary 16, 2026 at 11:35 AM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

India is facing increasing geopolitical challenges in its region as Bangladesh and Myanmar show signs of distancing themselves from New Delhi. Bangladesh has been drawing closer to Islamabad following the 2024 downfall of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who maintained close ties with India. Concurrently, China has sustained its influence in Myanmar since the 2021 coup that ousted the elected government. These strategic realignments are occurring as Bangladesh prepares for its general election on February 12th and Myanmar conducts its multi-phase polls. Analysts suggest India faces difficulties in balancing engagement with Myanmar's junta and addressing civil society's desire for India to counter China's influence in the country.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Naypyidaw 40% Jindal School of International Affairs 40% OP Jindal Global University 40% Sreeradha Datta ×260% Pakistan 60% Sheikh Hasina ×270% China ×370% Myanmar ×680% Bangladesh ×580% India ×490%

Keywords

india 90% bangladesh 80% myanmar 80% geopolitical challenges 80% regional influence 70% china 70% political realignment 60% elections 60% junta 50% sheikh hasina 50%