The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday summoned Bangladesh High Commissioner to India, Riaz Hamidullah, to convey India’s serious concerns over the deteriorating security situation in Bangladesh.
In a statement, the MEA said the High Commissioner was specifically apprised of the activities of certain extremist elements that have announced plans to create a security threat around the Indian Mission in Dhaka. The ministry strongly rejected what it described as a false narrative being propagated by extremist groups in connection with recent developments in Bangladesh.
“India completely rejects the false narrative sought to be created by extremist elements regarding certain recent events in Bangladesh. It is unfortunate that the interim government has neither conducted a thorough investigation nor shared meaningful evidence with India regarding the incidents,” the MEA said.
Reiterating the strong bilateral ties between the two countries, the MEA noted that India shares close and friendly relations with the people of Bangladesh, rooted in the liberation struggle and strengthened through development cooperation and people-to-people exchanges. The ministry emphasised India’s support for peace and stability in Bangladesh and its consistent call for “free, fair, inclusive and credible elections, conducted in a peaceful atmosphere.”
The MEA also underlined its expectation that the interim government in Bangladesh would ensure the safety and security of diplomatic missions and posts in accordance with its international obligations.
The diplomatic outreach comes amid heightened tensions following incidents such as anti-India rhetoric by National Citizen Party (NCP) leader Hasnat Abdullah. In a public speech, Abdullah reportedly threatened to isolate India’s northeastern states and offer refuge to separatist groups if Bangladesh were to be destabilised. He is known for his strong anti-India stance.
Earlier, Bangladesh’s Victory Day was marked by a cultural programme at the Bangladesh Embassy in New Delhi. Addressing the event, High Commissioner M Riaz Hamidullah reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to fulfilling the aspirations of its people, particularly the younger generation, while highlighting the country’s youthful demographic profile.
Emphasising the importance of bilateral ties, Hamidullah said Bangladesh and India share a mutually beneficial and interdependent relationship focused on regional prosperity, peace and security.
He said, “The whole of Bangladesh, and all of us, are committed to fulfilling the aspirations of our people, especially the younger generation. We have a very young demography… We believe our relationship with India is in our shared interest. We have mutual interdependence… We are fully focused on prosperity, peace, and security in the region.”
The event showcased Bangladesh’s rich culture and heritage while celebrating its liberation and independence. The High Commissioner’s remarks reflected Bangladesh’s stated commitment to advancing the interests of its people and strengthening ties with India.