In August last year, when the 15-year rule of Sheikh Hasina came to an end as a result of violent protests, there was a rare opportunity for Pakistan to reset its troubled ties with Bangladesh. Hasina, the daughter of Sheikh Mujibur Rehman, was a close ally of India. Many of her detractors in fact called her Indian puppet.

Bangladesh has historic grievances against Pakistan over what happened in 1971. But the relationship between the two countries never saw such a low as the one witnessed during Hasina's government. Pakistan wanted to move on from the bitter past and open a new chapter in the relationship. But the Awami League leader repeatedly rebuffed those peace overtures.

Hasina linked any rapprochement, with Pakistan formally apologising over the alleged atrocities of its military in 1971. But that was just an excuse. She became so close to India that her government would consult New Delhi on each step about Pakistan. During her 15-year rule, the Indian secret service managed to infiltrate........

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