Shantanu Mukharji

Despite the absence of strong, credible opposition in Bangladesh’s new parliament, Sheikh Hasina cannot afford to let her guards down after being sworn in as the prime minister for the third consecutive time.

More powerful than ever before, PM Sheikh Hasina is working overtime to achieve her election objectives. But her dalliances with Islamist parties remain a matter of concern.

Her triumph has also trounced any plans from Pakistan to create instability. But her real victory will be only when she addresses the challenges that lie ahead.

We need to examine what is provoking mobs to physically — and brutally — hit out at policemen.

As the year draws to a close, this remains a very positive political experiment, affirming faith in the democratic processes of a sensitive state.

The NIA arrested 10 people in the raids across Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. They have also recovered explosives, arms and a rocket launcher. In all this, they have been aided by valuable intel on radicalised youth inspired by the deadly ISIS.

As polling fever rises, large-scale clashes appear likely. But the violence wouldn't be limited there. If Pakistani groups have their way, it would impact even India's security.

Security analysts reckon that most of the Rohingya refugees are vulnerable to radicalisation.

Unless someone is held accountable for such lapses, violence will go unabated ahead of elections.

Terrorists with links to Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) have claimed responsibility for the lethal assault.