India-Bangladesh Tensions Rise: Who Is Fanning Anti-India Sentiments in Dhaka?

Rising tensions between India and Bangladesh are raising serious concerns in New Delhi. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has summoned the Bangladeshi High Commissioner to lodge a formal protest over recent incidents targeting Indian missions in Dhaka. Here’s an analysis of the situation and its possible implications.

Protests in Dhaka Escalate
As Bangladesh approaches its February 2026 elections, India-Bangladesh relations are witnessing increased strain. Once known for close ties, particularly under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the relationship has deteriorated in recent times. Demonstrations in Dhaka, including marches towards the Indian High Commission, have raised security concerns. During the protests, two Indian visa centers were temporarily closed for safety reasons.

Who Is Fueling Anti-India Sentiments?
The unrest appears linked to rising extremist ideologies in Bangladesh. Retired Brigadier General Abdullahil Aman Azmi previously made inflammatory remarks calling for India’s fragmentation, further straining bilateral relations. Analysts suggest that extremist elements, along with possible external influence from Pakistan and China, are contributing to the anti-India narrative.

India’s Firm Diplomatic Response
In response, India summoned Bangladeshi High Commissioner Riaz Hamidullah to emphasize the security threats to Indian missions. The MEA highlighted that extremist activities near Indian diplomatic missions and visa offices are unacceptable and must be prevented. India also rejected false narratives being propagated within Bangladesh regarding these events.

Expectations from Bangladesh’s Interim Government
The MEA expressed concern that the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus has neither conducted thorough investigations nor shared concrete information with India. India stressed the importance of maintaining peace, stability, and security for its missions, as well as ensuring free, fair, and credible elections.

The Stakes Ahead
India reiterated that its territory has never been used against the interests of the Bangladeshi people. The MEA firmly rejected claims made in Bangladesh’s 14 December 2025 press note and urged the interim government to take all necessary measures to maintain law and order, including facilitating a peaceful election process.

Conclusion
With elections approaching, the situation remains volatile. India’s firm diplomatic stance signals that any escalation or targeting of its missions will carry consequences, while underscoring the commitment to peace, stability, and people-to-people ties with Bangladesh.