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NEW DELHI/DHAKA—A fresh diplomatic row has erupted between India and Bangladesh after New Delhi’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) categorically rejected Dhaka’s assertion that Indian soil was being used for “incendiary” and hostile activities against Bangladesh, following the summoning of the Indian envoy in Dhaka.
The MEA’s strong rebuttal came on Sunday, hours after the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry summoned Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma to convey its “serious concern” over remarks made by former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently residing in India in self-exile. Dhaka’s interim government alleged that Hasina was being allowed to make “incendiary statements” from India, inciting her supporters to engage in what they termed “terrorist activities” to thwart the upcoming parliamentary elections in Bangladesh.
MEA Rejects Assertions, Reaffirms Poll Stance
In a sharply worded statement, the MEA declared: “India categorically rejects the assertions made by the interim Government of Bangladesh in its press note.”
The ministry emphasized its long-standing policy of non-interference and good neighborly relations, stating, “India has never allowed its territory to be used for activities inimical to the interests of the friendly people of Bangladesh.”
Furthermore, the MEA reiterated its consistent position regarding Bangladesh’s domestic politics:
“We have consistently reiterated our position in favour of free, fair, inclusive and credible elections being held in Bangladesh in a peaceful atmosphere.”
The statement also placed the onus of maintaining stability squarely on the interim government in Dhaka, adding, “We expect that the interim Government of Bangladesh will take all necessary measures for ensuring internal law and order, including for the purpose of holding peaceful elections.”
Dhaka’s Protest and Extradition Demand
Indian envoy Pranay Verma was reportedly summoned by the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry where the protest was lodged over the activities of Sheikh Hasina, who has been in India since the collapse of her government in August 2024. Hasina’s Awami League party has been barred from contesting the national polls scheduled for February 12.
During the meeting, the interim government of Bangladesh also formally sought the immediate extradition of Sheikh Hasina, who has faced legal proceedings and a death sentence verdict in absentia in Bangladesh related to her tenure.
The exchange highlights the significant strain in diplomatic ties between New Delhi and Dhaka since the installation of the interim government led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus. India had previously dismissed similar concerns from Dhaka as “misplaced.”
