India Raises Security Concerns in Dhaka
India has expressed serious concerns about security conditions surrounding its diplomatic mission in Dhaka, summoning Bangladeshi envoy Riaz Hamidullah on Wednesday to convey its position.
The Indian foreign ministry stated: "We expect the interim government to ensure the safety of [Indian] missions and posts in Bangladesh in keeping with its diplomatic obligations."
This diplomatic action follows recent demonstrations in Bangladesh where protesters marched toward the Indian high commission, demanding the return of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who has been residing in India since August 2024 after being ousted during student-led protests.
Election Season Tensions
Bangladesh is preparing for elections scheduled for 12 February under the interim administration led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. The political climate has become increasingly strained between the neighboring nations.
Earlier this week, Bangladesh had called in India's diplomatic representative in Dhaka to object to what it described as provocative statements allegedly made by Hasina from Indian territory regarding the forthcoming electoral process.
India has firmly denied these accusations, stating it "categorically rejects the assertions" made by Bangladesh authorities.
Legal Proceedings and Diplomatic Strain
The relationship between India and Bangladesh has deteriorated significantly since Hasina sought refuge in India. Dhaka has consistently requested her extradition to face legal proceedings.
Last month, a Bangladeshi court issued a death sentence against Hasina after finding her guilty of permitting excessive force against demonstrators, resulting in approximately 1,400 fatalities during the unrest.
Hasina has denied these charges, claiming the interim government is attempting to "nullify [her party] the Awami League as a political force" and expressing pride in her administration's human rights record.
Regional Security Implications
On Monday, Hasnat Abdullah, leader of Bangladesh's National Citizen Party, reportedly cautioned that Bangladesh might provide support to separatist groups targeting India's northeastern states if Delhi attempts to interfere in Bangladeshi affairs.
This statement appears to reference the strategic corridor connecting India's mainland to its seven northeastern states, which passes between Nepal and Bangladesh and presents both economic and security challenges for India.
India's foreign ministry responded by stating it "completely rejects the false narrative sought to be created by extremist elements regarding certain recent events in Bangladesh."
The ministry further noted: "It is unfortunate that the interim government has neither conducted a thorough investigation nor shared meaningful evidence with India regarding the incidents."
Current Developments
As election preparations continue, political tensions in Bangladesh have intensified, with multiple protest incidents reported in recent weeks.
Earlier this week, India temporarily closed its visa application center in Dhaka, announcing that appointments scheduled for the latter part of the day would be rearranged.
Bangladesh has not yet issued an official response to India's latest diplomatic communication regarding security concerns.
