Historical and Contemporary Perspectives on the Merger of Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan

Discussing the possibility of merging Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan reflects on a historical context that involves complex socio-political dynamics, regional differences, and religious identities. While the idea of reunification may seem appealing for unity and benefits, it faces significant challenges rooted in current realities.

Unlikely Historical Reunification

Historically, the unification of these countries into a single entity was an anomaly driven by Muslim rulers centuries ago. When the Muslimannels first arrived, a fragmented region encompassing 1000 kings was united under a common identity. However, this unique scenario has not repeated in modern times due to socio-political, economic, and religious factors that have since evolved.

As an example, the process of disintegrating threads of the original unity, akin to shredding a carefully woven carpet, has been nearly impossible to reverse. The divergent paths that India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh have taken since 1947, signifying different developmental trajectories, further emphasize the impossibility of regaining the lost identity through mere re-stitching or merging.

Theological and Cultural Divides

The divide between Islamic and non-Islamic identities, along with other regional differences, has created stark and glaring contrasts. Pakistan became more Islamic in its identity than Bangladesh, which is more aligned with Islamic values. Additionally, cultural changes within these regions have significantly altered the socio-political landscape, making a merger significantly more challenging, if not impossible.

Historical Insights and Motivations

Historical examples, such as the Italian unification led by Giuseppe Mazzini and the German unification led by Otto von Bismarck, illustrate the transformative power of unification. These leaders recognized the benefits of unity, including political stability, economic prosperity, and a stronger national identity. Similar benefits could be realized by merging Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan under a secular democratic framework.

Economic and Social Benefits of Unification

Unification can address several economic and social issues that exist between these three countries:

After the partition, the textile industry in India faced significant challenges due to the loss of high-quality cotton-growing regions to Pakistan. Additionally, the competition brought by cheaper imports from African countries added to the costs. Unifying could help reintegrate these regions and restore the textile industry’s strength.

The jute-growing region shifted to Bangladesh, leaving mills in India struggling. Unification would allow for the integration of these resources, revitalizing the jute industry.

With higher population density in Pakistan (260 per km2) compared to India (382 per km2), India could benefit from the vast empty spaces in Pakistan, alleviating urban congestion.

A unified South Asia could address the Kashmir issue and witness the unification of the once-undivided Kashmir, which remains a source of conflict and tension.

Brotherhood and Love through Secularism

Although the idea might seem idealistic, the foundation for unity lies in instilling brotherhood and love between different communities. A secular and democratic republic can serve as a framework to achieve this, avoiding the divisiveness that has plagued the region. The Indian Constitution, with its emphasis on secularism and pluralism, can provide a robust foundation for such an ideal.

Conclusion

While the historical context suggests that unification is highly unlikely due to the divergent cultural, religious, and socio-political identities of Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan, the potential for economic and social benefits, as well as the historical precedents of successful unification, provide a compelling case for unity. Achieving this unity requires a significant shift in mindset and a commitment to a shared future based on brotherhood and mutual respect.

History teaches us that unity is possible, and the question is not whether it will happen but rather when and under what conditions. The fall of the Berlin Wall symbolized the power of unity and reconciliation, and we might yet witness a similar transformation in the South Asian region, if conditions and people's mindset change.