Assam CM Points to Bangladesh's "Vulnerable Corridors" in Response to Siliguri Corridor Remarks

26 May, 2025

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma countered criticisms about India's strategic Siliguri Corridor, or "Chicken's Neck," by highlighting Bangladesh's own geographical vulnerabilities. Sarma asserted that Bangladesh has two fragile corridors more susceptible to disruption. His statement, referencing a map, follows recent remarks by Bangladesh interim government chief Muhammad Yunus about India's narrow land strip, adding a new dimension to regional geopolitical discussions.

Unpacked:

What is the Siliguri Corridor and why is it strategically important to India?

The Siliguri Corridor, or "Chicken's Neck," is a narrow strip of land in West Bengal connecting India's northeastern states to the rest of the country. It is a vital logistics and military artery, facilitating the movement of goods, people, and military supplies. Its proximity to China, Nepal, and Bangladesh makes it a sensitive chokepoint vulnerable to disruption, especially during conflicts.

What did Muhammad Yunus say about the Siliguri Corridor that prompted Assam’s Chief Minister to respond?

Bangladesh interim government chief Muhammad Yunus recently made remarks highlighting the vulnerability of India’s Siliguri Corridor, bringing attention to its narrowness and strategic importance. This comment added to ongoing geopolitical discussions, prompting Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to respond by pointing out similar vulnerabilities in Bangladesh.[Summary]

What are Bangladesh’s two geographical corridors that Sarma referred to, and why are they considered fragile?

Assam Chief Minister Sarma referred to two narrow land corridors in Bangladesh—likely the Tetulia corridor in the north and the Feni corridor in the southeast. These areas are relatively narrow stretches that, if disrupted, could impact regional connectivity and logistics, making them susceptible to strategic vulnerabilities similar to India's Siliguri Corridor.

How does China factor into the strategic concerns surrounding the Siliguri Corridor?

China views the Siliguri Corridor as a potential leverage point against India due to its strategic location. The corridor is within striking distance of China’s forces in Tibet, and past incidents like the 2017 Doklam standoff showed China’s interest in gaining influence over this area. China’s military and infrastructure activities near the corridor raise concerns about possible blockades or encirclement.