Dhaka:
Amid strained relations between India and Bangladesh ahead of Dhaka’s parliamentary elections scheduled for February 12, Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain has issued a sharp defence of his government’s position, rejecting accusations of deteriorating bilateral ties and responding bluntly to India’s concerns over the safety of Hindu minorities.
Speaking in an interview with the BBC, Hossain objected to India’s recent decision to withdraw families of its diplomats from Dhaka, calling the move “difficult to understand” and unjustified.
“There is no evidence to suggest that we failed to ensure the security of Indian nationals,” Hossain said, adding that New Delhi’s decision did not reflect well on mutual trust between the two neighbours.
Tensions Since Yunus Took Charge
Relations between India and Bangladesh have been under strain since Mohammad Yunus assumed power in August 2024, with differences emerging on political messaging, minority issues, and Dhaka’s evolving regional diplomacy.
Responding to strong reactions from India over recent attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh, Hossain expressed clear displeasure, asserting that Bangladesh does not comment on India’s internal minority issues and expects similar restraint from New Delhi.
“We do not issue statements on actions taken against minorities in India. I hope Indian officials follow the same approach,” he said.
“If there are excesses against our citizens, we have mechanisms to deal with them. India would do well to focus on its own minorities. We will handle our responsibilities ourselves.”
‘Relations Important, But Need Effort from Both Sides’
When asked whether India–Bangladesh relations had reached their lowest point, Hossain said it was difficult to judge but stressed that the relationship remains vital for both countries.
“I do not know if ties are at their lowest ebb, but Bangladesh–India relations are important for both nations, and both sides must take steps to preserve them,” he said.
Referring indirectly to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Hossain added that Dhaka had hoped political figures abroad would refrain from making statements that did not align with Bangladesh’s current realities—hopes that, he said, were not met.
Pakistan Angle and Regional Balancing
Addressing India’s concerns over Bangladesh’s improving relations with Pakistan, Hossain rejected the notion that Dhaka had taken any steps to undermine ties with New Delhi.
“We have not taken a single step to downgrade relations with India,” he said.
“You may ask my counterparts in Delhi whether we have adopted any harsh measures against them. What exactly have we done to damage the relationship?”
Hossain argued that Bangladesh’s ties with Pakistan had been deliberately weakened under the previous government, and the current administration was merely attempting to normalize relations.
“We have unresolved issues with Pakistan, and discussions are ongoing. But we are also trying to establish a normal relationship,” he said.
“What is wrong with seeking better relations with a neighbouring country? Just as we wish to maintain good relations with all other nations.”
Diplomatic Signals Ahead of Elections
Hossain’s remarks come at a politically sensitive moment, with Bangladesh heading into national elections amid regional scrutiny. His statements underscore Dhaka’s attempt to project diplomatic independence while pushing back firmly against external criticism—particularly from India—on internal governance and minority protection.