Dhaka University Professor Shahiduzzaman has advocated for a nuclear treaty between Bangladesh and Pakistan, citing concerns about India’s growing influence in the region. He emphasized that the deployment of Ghauri missiles in North Bengal could have acted as a deterrent to any potential military aggression from India.
Professor Shahiduzzaman, known for his association with the Pakistan-backed Jamaat-e-Islami party, has been a vocal critic of India’s policies toward Bangladesh. He argued that forging a nuclear agreement with Pakistan would significantly enhance Bangladesh’s national security, positioning it as a counterweight to India’s military might.
The professor’s proposal stirred considerable debate within Bangladesh. Supporters agreed with his view that such a treaty could potentially safeguard Bangladesh from regional threats. However, many critics expressed strong reservations, warning that a nuclear agreement could destabilize the region and contribute to increased nuclear proliferation.
Opponents also raised concerns about the global ramifications of such a treaty. They argued that it would likely invite condemnation from the international community, particularly from Western powers such as the United States and its allies, who have consistently opposed the spread of nuclear weapons in South Asia. The prospect of strained diplomatic relations was a significant factor in the opposition’s argument against the proposal.
