Countering Indian Hegemony through a Rohingya Safe Zone

Reading Time: 6 minutes The Bay of Bengal is undergoing a pivotal geopolitical transformation. India’s attempt to assert regional hegemony through initiatives such as the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project is increasingly being challenged by civil unrest in Myanmar and the evolving strategic interests of regional and global powers. This essay critically examines India’s hegemonic aspirations and proposes a recalibrated geopolitical approach that prioritises Bangladesh’s national interests. Central to this strategy is the proposed UN-backed safe zone in Rakhine State, supported by Bangladesh and the United States. This humanitarian-security initiative represents a unique strategic convergence that also aligns with China’s economic priorities. This rare alignment offers Bangladesh an historic opportunity to reinforce its sovereignty and redefine its strategic posture in South Asia. Introduction India’s efforts to bypass Bangladesh and assert dominance in regional connectivity are exemplified by the Kaladan project, which aims to link its northeastern states via Myanmar. With