Muhammad Yunus, the Chief Advisor, has emphasized the necessity of resolving the long-standing dispute over Bangladesh and India’s share of transboundary river water in accordance with international standards.
During the second segment of the interview with Press Trust of India, which took place last Sunday at the CA’s official residence in Dhaka, Yunus stated that Bangladesh and other lower riparian countries have certain rights that need to be upheld.
Yesterday saw the release of the second segment of the interview.
The interim government of Bangladesh, according to the main adviser, would keep collaborating with India to settle disagreements regarding the Teesta water-sharing agreement, which has been hanging fire since 2011.
“There is no benefit to this subject [water sharing] being ignored. Even if I sign it and am not thrilled, it would be better if I knew how much water I would get. This problem has to be fixed.”
When asked if the Teesta deal will be expedited, Yunus responded, saying, “Push is a strong word.” We’ll pursue it, but I wouldn’t say we’ll push. It needs to be settled by sitting down on both sides.”
Mamata Banerjee, the chief minister of West Bengal, has opposed the Teesta water-sharing agreement, citing water shortages in the northern part of her state.
While acknowledging the intricacy of the matter, Yunus pointed out that the state government’s reluctance has prevented the Indian federal government from completing the deal. “This problem exists before Bangladesh gained its independence. Time to put a finish to it.”
In the event that Bangladesh and India do not have a formal treaty, he suggested using humanitarian intervention to handle flood problems.
“During our meeting, I recommended improved coordination to manage flood conditions to the Indian High Commissioner. Without a convention, this can be done on humanitarian grounds. The people’s pain would be lessened by such cooperation, the main adviser declared.
Regarding the divisive topic of border killings, Yunus vehemently denounced the passing of Bangladeshi nationals near the Bangladesh-India border.
“There is no answer in killing. Border problems have legal channels for resolution. The people being shot are messengers, not intruders. This ought to end because it is blatantly heartless.”
