The Spectre of a Counter-Revolution: Assessing the Risk of a Pro-Indian Military Coup in Bangladesh

Reading Time: 7 minutes Any attempt at a coup in the current political climate of Bangladesh would almost certainly plunge the nation into a prolonged period of turmoil, civil unrest, and potential state paralysis. Unlike previous eras where military takeovers might have been greeted with indifference or even quiet acquiescence, today’s Bangladesh is markedly different. The people are not only politically conscious but are also deeply invested in preserving the democratic gains won through a nationwide revolution that overthrew the Awami League’s authoritarian rule. Any move by General Waker or other pro-Indian military elements to reverse this course would be regarded not merely as a power grab, but as a direct assault on national dignity, sovereignty, and the democratic will of the people. The context matters profoundly. The interim government led by Dr Muhammad Yunus enjoys broad-based legitimacy not from a flawed electoral process or backroom deals, but from a