Related Articles:
Abstract
This comprehensive analysis examines the Farakka Barrage dispute between Bangladesh and India through both legal and political perspectives during the early 1980s. The article explores the historical background of the barrage construction and analyzes its impact on water flows, agriculture, and environment in downstream Bangladesh. The research investigates the relevant principles of international water law applicable to the dispute, including equitable utilization, no-harm rule, and prior notification requirements. The study examines the diplomatic negotiations between Bangladesh and India on Farakka, analyzing different agreement frameworks and their implementation challenges. The article assesses the political dimensions of the dispute, including domestic pressures, regional power dynamics, and bilateral relationship implications. The research also evaluates alternative dispute resolution mechanisms and potential technical solutions to address water sharing concerns. Furthermore, the analysis considers the broader implications of the Farakka dispute for international water governance and regional cooperation in South Asia.
Full Text
The Farakka Barrage dispute represented one of the most significant bilateral issues between Bangladesh and India, with this article providing a comprehensive analysis of its legal and political dimensions during the early 1980s. The research begins by examining the historical context of the Farakka Barrage, tracing its planning during the colonial period, construction after Indian independence, and operationalization despite Bangladeshi concerns following the 1971 liberation. The analysis explores the technical dimensions of the dispute, examining how the barrage affects dry season water flows in the Ganges River system and consequently agriculture, navigation, and environmental conditions in southwestern Bangladesh. The article investigates the applicable principles of international water law, analyzing how norms of equitable and reasonable utilization, obligation not to cause significant harm, and prior notification and consultation should govern transboundary water arrangements. The study examines the diplomatic history of the dispute, assessing various temporary agreements, their implementation challenges, and ongoing negotiation processes between the two countries. The research evaluates the political economy of the dispute, analyzing how domestic constituencies in both countries, federal-state relations in India, and broader bilateral relationship dynamics influence negotiation positions and outcomes. Based on the comprehensive assessment, the article develops a framework for resolving the Farakka dispute that balances legal principles, technical requirements, and political realities. The findings provide valuable insights into the challenges of managing transboundary water resources in South Asia and contribute to understanding how historical legacy, power asymmetry, and legal norms interact in international river disputes.