In an era when political rhetoric often dominates, overshadowing meaningful action, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has emerged with a powerful and decisive stance on one of the country's most pressing issues: the sharing of Teesta River waters.

The party's recent two-day sit-in along eleven points of the riverbanks in five northern districts is not simply a political protest—it is a carefully calculated maneuver to bring attention to a longstanding issue that has long been overlooked.

The Teesta water crisis is far more than a matter of partisan politics; it touches on Bangladesh’s sovereignty, regional justice, and environmental sustainability.

This River holds immense significance for Bangladesh. Flowing from the Himalayas through the Indian states of Sikkim and West Bengal before entering Bangladesh, it is a lifeline for millions of people.

The northern regions of Bangladesh rely heavily on the river for agriculture, fishing, and domestic water needs. Yet, for over a decade, the country has been denied its rightful share of water, as India exerts unilateral control over the river upstream.

This has led to devastating droughts, disrupted agricultural cycles, and left thousands of Bangladeshi families in economic turmoil.

Despite promises of a water-sharing agreement between India and Bangladesh, the issue remains unresolved, with India’s domestic political dynamics—especially the opposition from West Bengal’s state government—standing in the way.

The BNP’s decision to frame this issue as a movement, and to mobilize the public with its sit-in, has brought to light an issue that should have been a national priority for years.

By focusing on the Teesta, the party has reignited a crucial discussion that speaks to the very heart of the nation’s welfare.

In taking this bold step, BNP has not only shown its commitment to the people of Bangladesh, but has also positioned itself as a political force prioritizing national interest over fleeting political gain.

The Teesta River Protection Movement Committee, spearheaded by BNP leaders and activists, sends a powerful message: Bangladesh will not passively stand by as its vital resources are drained.

By physically aligning themselves with the people suffering the consequences, BNP’s leadership has reinforced the narrative that political opposition is not just about critiquing the government—it is about standing up for the rights and dignity of the people.

Advocating for Bangladesh's water sovereignty

The issue of water sharing has long been at the heart of Bangladesh-India relations. India, with its dominant position in bilateral negotiations, has often wielded its influence in ways that fail to prioritize Bangladesh’s concerns.

The withholding of Teesta River water has become a symbol of broader frustrations with India’s approach to its neighbor.

Through its recent demonstrations, the BNP has brought these issues to the forefront, questioning the status quo and calling for a more equitable, respectful partnership between the two nations.

The party has correctly pointed out that a true friendship between neighbors should be rooted in fairness, mutual benefit, and justice, not dominance and unilateral decision-making.

The timing of BNP's Teesta campaign is also significant. As Bangladesh approaches a critical political juncture with upcoming elections, raising an issue that directly impacts millions of citizens is both a moral and strategic move.

By advocating for the fair management of Teesta waters and the implementation of the Teesta Master Plan, BNP reinforces its image as a party that listens to the people and fights for their rights.

This campaign not only strengthens BNP’s political position but also forces the ruling government to confront an issue they have largely neglected or mishandled.

However, BNP’s activism is not solely focused on criticizing India. The party has emphasized the need for a comprehensive river management plan that aligns with Bangladesh's national interests.

The proposed Teesta Master Plan includes dredging the river, reclaiming land for irrigation, and promoting economic activities like navigation and tourism.

BNP's push for the implementation of this plan, especially with the involvement of Chinese collaboration, challenges the government’s hesitant stance on the matter. Instead of waiting indefinitely for India’s cooperation, BNP advocates for a proactive alternative that ensures sustainable water management within Bangladesh's jurisdiction.

At the helm of this strategic approach is Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of BNP. Under his leadership, BNP has sharpened its focus on critical issues such as economic justice and resource sovereignty.

Tarique has consistently emphasized the importance of assertive diplomacy and self-reliance in managing Bangladesh’s resources.

His influence is evident in the party’s grassroots mobilization and policy-driven approach to the Teesta issue.

Through strategic mass mobilization and international advocacy, Tarique Rahman has ensured that the Teesta movement is not just a political gesture but a genuine fight for Bangladesh's rights.

A fight for equal rights

Tarique Rahman’s leadership has infused the BNP with a renewed sense of urgency and strategic direction.

Under his guidance, BNP has taken a bold stance, asserting that Bangladesh must actively pursue its water rights instead of passively waiting for India's goodwill.

Tarique’s emphasis on engaging with international stakeholders, particularly China, as an alternative solution to the Teesta dispute, reflects a pragmatic approach to resolving long-standing challenges in Bangladesh-India relations.

The movement has also served as a wake-up call for other political actors. By championing the cause of the marginalized northern districts—an area often neglected in national development discourse—BNP has positioned itself as a voice for the voiceless.

Through mobilizing grassroots support and directly engaging with affected communities, BNP has transformed local grievances into a national issue.

This strategic move not only consolidates the party’s base but also broadens its appeal across a diverse electorate.

BNP’s Teesta campaign projects an image of assertiveness and proactive leadership. The party’s demand for fair water distribution is not merely an electoral tactic; it is a legitimate call for justice with profound economic, environmental, and humanitarian implications.

Failure to secure Bangladesh’s share of the Teesta River would lead to dire long-term consequences, including reduced agricultural productivity, water scarcity, loss of livelihoods, and increased vulnerability to climate change.

Beyond political calculations, BNP’s movement is a statement of national pride. Bangladesh, as a sovereign nation, must assert its rights over shared natural resources, and water security is a fundamental right.

By rallying around this cause, BNP is advocating for Bangladesh’s self-respect and dignity on the global stage.

The notion that Bangladesh should remain a passive recipient of India’s decisions is outdated and harmful to national interests. BNP’s call for equitable water-sharing reaffirms the country’s agency in international relations.

This movement also has the potential to redefine political activism in Bangladesh. Effective opposition politics should not be solely about resisting the ruling party; it must also champion people’s causes.

Issues such as water security, environmental sustainability, and rural livelihoods should be central to political discourse, and BNP’s initiative has set a commendable example for others to follow.

It provides a model for opposition parties, encouraging them to engage with the public on substantive issues rather than merely focusing on electoral contests.

BNP’s Teesta initiative is, therefore, a pivotal moment in Bangladesh’s political and environmental history. It transcends political affiliations and speaks to broader questions of resource equity and national sovereignty.

The success of this movement will depend on sustained pressure, strategic diplomacy, and ongoing engagement with grassroots demands.

If BNP can maintain its momentum and push for tangible outcomes, this could mark a turning point in both the party’s political trajectory and Bangladesh’s water diplomacy.

Under Tarique’s leadership, BNP has demonstrated that it does not merely react to circumstances but leads with purpose. The fight for Teesta is, ultimately, a fight for justice, sovereignty, and survival—a fight BNP is now leading with renewed vigor and determination.

—

Writer- H. M. Nazmul Alam is an Academic, Journalist, and Political Analyst. He can be reached at [email protected]