A major diplomatic controversy has erupted after Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Dr. Muhammad Yunus, presented a controversial gift to Pakistan’s top military general. The artwork, which reportedly features a map showing India’s seven northeastern states as part of Bangladesh, has been condemned by analysts as a “deliberate provocation” against India.
The incident occurred during a meeting in Dhaka between Dr. Yunus and General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Pakistan’s Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee. The meeting was officially intended to discuss strengthening “trade, connectivity, and defence” ties between the two nations.
What is the “Art of Triumph” Gift?
The gift in question is a book or artwork titled “The Art of Triumph.”
This same title was previously identified as a book of wall paintings created by students during the 2024 revolution that brought Dr. Yunus to power. In September 2024, Dr. Yunus presented a copy to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as a symbol of Bangladesh’s new direction.
However, the version given to the Pakistani general featured a cover with a “distorted” map of Bangladesh. This map controversially included the entire northeastern region of India, including Assam and other states, within its borders.
Why the Map Sparked Outrage in India
The map is seen as a direct challenge to India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. It has also alarmed strategic experts because it visually promotes the radical, expansionist ideology of a “Greater Bangladesh” (Brihot Bongo), a concept pushed by extremist groups.
By presenting this map not to a diplomat but to Pakistan’s highest-ranking military official, analysts believe the gesture was a calculated signal.
Analysis: A “Psy-War” Signal?
In strategic circles, the move is being interpreted as far more than a diplomatic mistake. Here’s a breakdown of the analysis:
- A “Psy-War” Signal: The gift is being described as a “psychological warfare” signal aimed at India.
- Dhaka-Rawalpindi Alignment: It is seen as a symbolic endorsement of Pakistan’s military establishment (based in Rawalpindi) and its long-standing anti-India narrative.
- Erasing 1971: Some analysts suggest the gesture is an attempt to symbolically “erase” Pakistan’s military defeat to India and the Bengali liberation forces in the 1971 war, projecting a renewed ideological partnership.
Part of a Pattern of Anti-India Actions
This incident is not the first time the Yunus-led government has caused concern in New Delhi. It follows a clear pattern of provocative statements:
- “Landlocked” Remarks: Earlier this year, Dr. Yunus repeatedly referred to India’s northeastern states as “landlocked” during a visit to China. He positioned Bangladesh as the “only guardian of the ocean” for the region, urging Chinese investment.
- Aide’s Threat: In May 2025, a close aide to Dr. Yunus, Major General (retd) Fazlur Rahman, sparked outrage by suggesting that if India were to attack Pakistan, Bangladesh should “collaborate with China to occupy” India’s seven northeastern states.
While the full diplomatic fallout from the “Art of Triumph” gift is yet to be seen, it has significantly strained relations and is being viewed in New Delhi as a serious and intentional provocation.
