The longstanding and unresolved dispute over the Teesta River water sharing between Bangladesh and India has reached a critical juncture. Chief Adviser to the interim government Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus has recently highlighted the urgent need to address this issue, emphasising its adverse impact on both countries. His call for prompt resolution and constructive dialogue represents a significant step towards addressing this prolonged problem.
In a recent interview with the Press Trust of India (PTI), Dr Yunus expressed frustration over the continuing deadlock regarding the Teesta water-sharing agreement. He underscored the issue, which has remained unresolved for years, benefits neither nation.
Dr Yunus stressed the necessity for an agreement that adheres to international laws and respects the rights of downstream countries such as Bangladesh. This consideration is vital given the complex nature of transboundary water rights and environmental concerns.
The Teesta River, an essential water source for Bangladesh and India’s West Bengal, has been disputed for years. A significant breakthrough appeared possible in 2011 during India’s former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s visit to Dhaka. Still, the deal faltered due to objections from West Bengal’s Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who cited water shortages in her state as a significant concern. This setback illustrates the regional complexities that often complicate bilateral agreements.
Dr Yunus’s call for action reflects frustration and a reasoned appeal for a pragmatic resolution. He discusses that the continued indecision benefits neither side and suggests that even a partially satisfactory agreement would be preferable to the current deadlock. This approach highlights the necessity of compromise and the practicalities of achieving incremental progress in complex issues.
This setback over Teesta issue illustrates the regional
complexities that often complicate bilateral agreements.
Dr Yunus’s call for action reflects frustration and
a reasoned appeal for a pragmatic resolution. It is high
time to resolve the Teesta water-sharing dispute.
Furthermore, Dr Yunus emphasised the importance of addressing humanitarian considerations in the discussions. He proposed that both nations adopt a human-centric approach to managing flood situations and other related crises before finalising formal agreements. This perspective aligns with a broader strategy for international cooperation, where empathy and practical solutions can lead to more sustainable agreements.
Recent statements by the interim government’s Adviser to the Water Resources Ministry, Syeda Rizwana Hasan, indicate that Bangladesh will press India to resume discussions on the Teesta agreement. This renewed focus on diplomatic engagement reflects Bangladesh’s commitment to resolve the issue. Emphasising adherence to international standards for shared river management is a critical factor both countries must address.
Dr Yunus also addressed other contentious issues, such as boundary killings and highlighted that violence is not a solution. His stance reinforces the need for peaceful, dialogue-driven resolutions and aligns to foster a cooperative and mutually helpful relationship between Bangladesh and India.
The situation necessitates a renewed and earnest effort from both governments to address the Teesta-sharing issue comprehensively. The stakes are high, not only for the immediate investors but also for regional geopolitical stability. Both nations must engage in good faith
negotiations, leveraging the expertise and empathy of leaders like Dr Yunus to craft a solution that adheres
to international laws and meets the needs of their
populations.
The time to resolve the Teesta water-sharing dispute is now. The need for a practical, benevolent and legally sound agreement has never been more pressing. As Bangladesh and India navigate this complex issue, a cooperative spirit and commitment to equitable solutions will be essential for achieving lasting progress.
