Tensions between India and Bangladesh have increased after Mahfouz Alam, a student adviser to the interim government of Bangladesh led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, made a controversial statement.
The comments, which included provocative suggestions of annexing parts of India, were made on December 16 and coincided with Bangladesh’s Victory Day, a national holiday commemorating the victory over Pakistan in the 1971 liberation war.
The now-deleted post drew sharp condemnation from India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Speaking on the matter, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said: “We have lodged a strong protest with Bangladesh over this issue. We understand that the post in question has reportedly been Removed. We would like to remind all relevant parties to be aware of their public comments.
Starting soon!
Listen to our weekly media briefing: https://t.co/IrgYKfCcxp
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) December 20, 2024
Jaiswal further emphasized India’s commitment to maintaining cordial relations with Bangladesh, saying: “While India has repeatedly expressed interest in promoting relations with the people and the interim government of Bangladesh, such remarks underscore the need for public expressions of responsibility.”
The incident caused diplomatic ripples at a time when both countries face sensitive political dynamics. Bangladesh is currently led by an interim government led by Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus.
Bangladesh has been an important ally of India since former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina came to power in 2009. Hasina’s tenure New Delhi and Dhaka enjoy healthy relations. However, relations between the two countries soured after Hasina fled to India seeking asylum following a popular uprising.
Why should you buy our subscription?
You want to be the smartest person in the room.
You want access to our award-winning journalism.
You don’t want to be misled and misled.
Choose your subscription plan