India has formally lodged a “strong protest” with Bangladesh over controversial remarks made by Mahafuji Alam, a prominent aide in Bangladesh’s interim government. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed concern over the nature of these remarks and called on leaders of neighboring countries to take greater responsibility in their public statements.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stressed that India was keen to continue promoting bilateral ties with Bangladesh but warned that public expressions needed to be handled with caution.
Bilateral relations are increasingly tense
Relations between India and Bangladesh have faced severe tensions of late, especially in the wake of political unrest in Bangladesh. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government collapsed after violent protests broke out against the government’s policy of reservation of state jobs.
Hasina fled the country in August amid threats, seeking refuge in India after mobs attacked her home in Dhaka.
After her departure, an interim government led by Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus took over. However, political instability and the formation of a new government have heightened tensions between the two countries.
India has repeatedly expressed concerns about the state of governance in Bangladesh and its impact on the security of minority communities.
Concerns about violence against minorities
India is also concerned about the disturbing increase in violence against Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) highlighted that 2,200 incidents of violence against Hindus were reported in 2024, a significant increase from 302 incidents in 2023.
According to the MEA, the increase in violence followed the collapse of the Awami League government in Bangladesh.
India has repeatedly expressed concerns to the Bangladesh government and urged the interim government to take immediate measures to protect the lives and rights of Hindus and other minority groups.
External Affairs Minister Kirti Vardhan Singh reiterated these concerns in the Union House, stressing that the safety of the Bengali minority was India’s top priority.
India’s diplomatic efforts
India’s diplomatic engagement on the issue has been ongoing. During his visit to Bangladesh in December 2024, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri conveyed India’s concerns directly to members of the caretaker government.
The Indian government hopes that Bangladesh will take urgent action to ensure the safety of Hindus and other vulnerable groups within its borders.