India has summoned Bangladesh’s Acting High Commissioner, Mohammad Nural Islam, to express its concerns over what it describes as “persistent negativity” stemming from statements made by the Bangladeshi authorities. This diplomatic move, executed on February 7, 2025, marks a significant escalation in tensions between the two neighboring countries, which have recently been strained by political developments in Bangladesh.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India conveyed that it is “regrettable” that regular statements from Bangladesh portray India negatively and hold it responsible for internal governance issues within Bangladesh. The MEA emphasized that such statements are detrimental to the bilateral relationship and contribute to ongoing negativity. In a statement, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated India’s desire for a “positive, constructive and mutually beneficial relationship” with Bangladesh, a sentiment that has been expressed multiple times in recent high-level meetings.
The backdrop to this diplomatic fracas involves remarks made by former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has been living in India since August 2024 following a political upheaval in Bangladesh. Hasina’s recent online speeches have included sharp criticisms of the interim government in Bangladesh and accusations against its leadership. These comments have provoked a strong response from Dhaka, which summoned India’s acting envoy to lodge a formal protest against what it termed “false and fabricated” statements made by Hasina.
In response to the protests from Dhaka, the Indian government clarified that Hasina’s remarks were made in her “individual capacity” and that India had no role in her statements. The MEA cautioned against conflating Hasina’s comments with the official position of the Indian government, asserting that doing so would not contribute positively to bilateral relations.
The diplomatic tensions have escalated amid violent protests in Bangladesh, where demonstrators have targeted properties associated with Hasina’s Awami League party. Following the vandalism of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s historic residence—a highly symbolic site for Bangladesh—Hasina condemned the attacks and warned that “history takes its revenge.” This situation has led to further unrest, with reports of mob violence against Awami League leaders’ homes across the country.
The interim government in Bangladesh has responded to these developments by calling for law and order restoration and condemning the violence. The head of the interim government, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, urged citizens to respect the law while expressing understanding for the anger of those who participated in the protests.
As tensions continue to rise between India and Bangladesh, both governments appear to be at an impasse. India is keen on fostering a cooperative relationship but expects reciprocal efforts from Dhaka without further aggravation of diplomatic relations. The situation remains fluid as both nations navigate their complex political landscapes while addressing public sentiment and international scrutiny.
