Indian CDS Warns of Potential Convergence Between China, Pakistan, and Bangladesh

India’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Anil Chauhan, has cautioned about a possible alignment of interests among China, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. He suggested this could present considerable challenges to India’s internal security, according to recent reports.

“A potential convergence of interests is observable between China, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, which could significantly impact India’s stability and security,” General Chauhan stated at an event hosted by the Observer Research Foundation, a think tank based in New Delhi.

The Indian general’s comments come amidst a cooling of India-Bangladesh relations following the departure of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina last year. Hasina subsequently sought refuge in India.

Concerns Over Geopolitical Shifts

Expressing apprehension about evolving geopolitical dynamics in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), General Chauhan asserted that the region’s vulnerabilities have enabled external actors to amplify their influence.

“The IOR has enabled external powers to exert influence through debt strategies, creating susceptibilities for India. Similarly, frequent governmental changes in South Asia, coupled with shifting geopolitical landscapes and differing ideological viewpoints, present another major challenge,” he noted.

China’s Involvement

Acknowledging speculation regarding China’s involvement, he stated, “Determining the extent of state support provided by China to Pakistan during Operation Sindoor is challenging.” He further mentioned that no unusual activity was detected along India’s northern borders during the conflict.

Previously, the Indian CDS admitted that New Delhi lost a number of fighter aircraft in the May clashes during a recent Pakistan-India conflict. He became the first Indian official to do so.

His statement alluded to the conflict involving missile, drone, and artillery exchanges between both countries during a four-day period in May. The conflict, triggered by an April attack on Hindu tourists in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), marked their worst clashes in decades. New Delhi attributed the attack to Pakistan, a claim denied by Islamabad.

During the brief conflict, Pakistan claimed to have shot down six Indian fighter jets, including three Rafales, along with numerous drones. The conflict concluded on May 10 with a US-brokered ceasefire agreement after approximately 87 hours.

The concerns voiced by the Indian CDS mirror those of Indian army’s deputy chief, Lieutenant General Rahul Singh. Last week, Singh alleged that China provided Islamabad with real-time intelligence on vital Indian positions during the May clashes.