This remark underscores the “persistent vulnerability narrative associated with the strategic ‘Chicken’s Neck’ corridor”, he said.
“Historically, even internal elements within India have dangerously suggested severing this critical passageway to isolate the Northeast from the mainland physically. Therefore, it is imperative to develop more robust railway and road networks both underneath and around the Chicken’s Neck corridor. Such provocative statements by Md Younis must not be taken lightly, as they reflect deeper strategic considerations and longstanding agendas,” he said.
Yunus apparently made the comment during his recent four-day visit to China. A video of it surfaced on social media on Monday.
Yunus has urged Beijing to extend its economic influence to Bangladesh, controversially mentioning that India’s northeastern states being landlocked could prove to be an opportunity.
Yunus, who met President Xi Jinping and signed nine agreements with Beijing during the trip, said, “The seven states of India, the eastern part of India, are called the seven sisters. They are a landlocked region of India. They have no way to reach out to the ocean.”
Calling Bangladesh as the “only guardian of the ocean” in the region, he said this could be a huge opportunity and could be an extension of the Chinese economy.
Former Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh asked Yunus to not make reckless comments about India as its is “not only unwise but also lead to consequences”. “Let it be made absolutely clear, India’s unity and territorial integrity are non-negotiable and cannot be challenged by anyone. Md Yunus must exercise restraint; making reckless comments about a nation like India is not only unwise but also lead to consequences he may come to regret,” he added.
