India-Bangladesh Tensions Escalate Amidst Anti-India Protests and Diplomatic Spa

Fresh tensions have emerged between India and Bangladesh following controversial remarks by Bangladesh’s Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain regarding Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and India’s influence. Hossain stated that Dhaka could not act against Sheikh Hasina unless India chose to do so, acknowledging Bangladesh’s internal political crisis.

He also dismissed New Delhi’s calls for free and fair elections as "unnecessary advice." These statements coincide with intensified anti-India rhetoric and protests in Dhaka. Protesters, linked to the July 2024s uprising, marched towards the Indian High Commission in Gulshan, attempting to breach police barricades, necessitating heavy security deployment.

In response, Indias Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) summoned Bangladeshs High Commissioner in New Delhi, expressing grave concern over threats to Indian diplomats and the deteriorating security situation.

The MEA reiterated that India cannot be blamed for Bangladeshs instability and stressed Dhakas responsibility for maintaining law and order, ensuring a safe election environment, and protecting foreign diplomatic missions.