India Today’s popular defence podcast “In Our Defence” releases a thought-provoking episode on December 26, 2025. Host Dev Goswami teams up with defence expert Sandeep Unnithan to examine Bangladesh’s escalating political turmoil. Moreover, they tackle the provocative question: Is Bangladesh turning into “East Pakistan 2.0,” with rising Islamic nationalism and closer ties to Pakistan?
Trigger: Killing of Student Leader Sparks Fresh Chaos
The episode centers on the recent killing of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi. This incident reignites widespread protests, but anger now directs sharply against India. Additionally, demonstrators smash statues of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Bangladesh’s founding father, symbolizing a deliberate erasure of the 1971 Liberation War history.
Key Discussions: Defence Historical Legacies and Rising Concerns
Goswami and Unnithan delve into contrasting legacies. They compare Sheikh Mujibur Rahman (the “founder”) with General Ziaur Rahman. Furthermore, they analyze how revising 1971 narratives paves the way for “Pakistan-style” Islamic nationalism.
The experts address alarming reports of the Pakistan Army’s growing influence in Bangladeshi politics. They also discuss rumors of a potential Pakistan-Bangladesh mutual defence pact and its implications for India’s security, potentially opening a “Third Front.”
Another Hindu man set on fire in Bangladesh, escapes by jumping into pond 
Tarique Rahman Returns to Bangladesh After 17 Years in Exile 
Himanta Taunts Gogoi “He Can Contest Elections in Pakistan” 
Bangladesh Awaits Crucial Verdict Against Ousted PM Sheikh Hasina 
Pakistan FM IMF Cannot Impose Conditions on National Interests 
Bangladesh plans to lease ports to foreign firms spark anger