Amidst already strained relations between New Delhi and Dhaka, Bangladesh has permitted the Chinese Ambassador to visit a project site in close proximity to India's strategically sensitive Siliguri Corridor, also known as the "Chicken's Neck". This narrow strip of land, approximately 22 kilometers (14 miles) wide at its narrowest point, is crucial as it connects India's northeastern states to the rest of the country. Any disruption to this corridor could significantly weaken India's ability to project power and influence in the northeast.
Yao Wen, China's Ambassador to Bangladesh, visited the Teesta project area on Monday, concerning a technical assessment being conducted under the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project. Water resources adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan accompanied Yao, stating that China is eager to begin implementing the Teesta Master Plan (TMP) as soon as possible and that both Bangladesh and China are committed to this. However, she noted that work cannot begin until the scrutiny process of the project is complete.
The Teesta River is a vital resource for agriculture and livelihoods in Bangladesh's northern districts, and is equally critical for India, specifically West Bengal. A water-sharing agreement has been a point of contention between the two countries for decades, remaining unresolved due to concerns from the West Bengal government.
Prior to the visit, Ambassador Yao Wen met with Bangladesh's National Security Advisor Khalilur Rahman on Sunday. Discussions during the meeting included the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project, and the proposed Bangladesh-China Friendship Hospital. The Chief Adviser's press wing noted that both sides exchanged views on issues of mutual interest, reaffirming the longstanding friendship and development cooperation between Bangladesh and China. Yao Wen also reiterated China's support for Bangladesh's democratic transition and conveyed best wishes for the upcoming national elections.
Concerns have been raised in India regarding China's increasing interest and potential presence near the Siliguri Corridor. Some experts suggest that Chinese involvement in projects near the "Chicken's Neck" could have strategic implications for India's security, potentially enabling China to monitor Indian military movements and gather intelligence. These concerns are amplified by reports of China's plans to establish People's Liberation Army (PLA) bases in Pakistan and Bangladesh, as highlighted in the Pentagon's 2025 Military Power Report.
In November 2025, the Indian Army activated the Lachit Borphukan Military Station in Assam's Dhubri district and has set up forward bases at Kishanganj in Bihar and Chopra in West Bengal to enhance surveillance along the border. These garrisons are considered essential in the evolving security environment around the Siliguri Corridor.
Furthermore, there are reports that Bangladesh is considering reviving an old airbase at Lalmonirhat with potential Chinese involvement, which is located close to the Siliguri Corridor. While a senior Bangladeshi army official stated in May 2025 that the airbase was being revived to "support national needs" and denied any Chinese involvement, the proximity of the airbase to the Indian border raises security concerns for India.
The ongoing developments underscore the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region, with India carefully observing China's growing influence in its neighboring countries and taking measures to safeguard its strategic interests.
