India Raises Security Concerns with Bangladesh Over Diplomatic Mission

India's Ministry of External Affairs summoned Riaz Hamidullah, the High Commissioner of Bangladesh, on Wednesday to express serious concerns regarding the worsening security situation in Bangladesh, particularly threats against the Indian diplomatic mission in Dhaka. This incident underscores the deteriorating relations between the two countries, which have been strained since the collapse of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government in August 2024 amid widespread protests led by students.

The summoning of the Bangladeshi envoy comes in response to planned protests by extremist groups aimed at the Indian High Commission, as reported by multiple sources familiar with the situation. Joint Secretary B Shyam, who oversees the Bangladesh-Myanmar division at the Ministry of External Affairs, formally lodged a protest, emphasising India's expectation that the interim government would uphold its diplomatic responsibilities to ensure the safety of foreign missions.

In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs conveyed India's 'strong concerns' regarding the escalating security threats posed by extremist elements, which include plans to incite unrest around the Indian diplomatic premises. The ministry reiterated India's commitment to fostering peace and stability in Bangladesh, while also advocating for free and fair elections in a secure environment.

A significant factor prompting the diplomatic action was a provocative speech delivered on Monday by Hasnat Abdullah, a leader of the National Citizen Party (NCP), who suggested that Bangladesh could provide refuge to separatist groups from India's northeastern states. His remarks came during a rally organised by Inqilab Mancha, a party associated with the protests against the previous government. Abdullah's speech included allegations that India was supporting chaos and violence in Bangladesh, further complicating the already tense diplomatic relationship.

The external affairs ministry responded to these accusations by rejecting what it termed a 'false narrative' being propagated by extremist factions in Bangladesh. It highlighted the lack of substantive evidence or thorough investigations conducted by the interim government concerning recent incidents.

India's diplomatic relations with Bangladesh have been particularly strained since the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus took power. Concerns have been raised about the resurgence of radical groups within Bangladesh and the treatment of minorities, especially Hindus. Past Bangladeshi administrations have been accused of overlooking or supporting militant activities that affect India's northeastern states.

In a reciprocal move reflecting the escalating tensions, India has closed its Indian Visa Application Centre in Dhaka due to security concerns. This decision, announced on the same day as the summoning of the Bangladeshi envoy, signals a significant escalation in diplomatic hostilities.

The strained relations have also been marked by Bangladesh's demands for India to apprehend and extradite individuals allegedly involved in an assassination attempt on Sharif Osman Hadi, a right-wing student leader, who was attacked earlier this month. The Bangladeshi government has accused India of failing to address these security issues adequately.

Both nations have historical ties rooted in the liberation struggle of Bangladesh, but recent events suggest that these connections are under severe strain. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining friendly relations with the Bangladeshi populace, despite the current political climate. The ministry expressed hope that the interim government would take necessary actions to safeguard diplomatic missions and restore stability in the region.

As the political landscape in Bangladesh continues to evolve, with elections scheduled for February 2026, the implications of these diplomatic tensions could have far-reaching consequences for both nations.