Bangladeshi Leader Demands Indian High Commissioner’s Expulsion, Threatens India’s ‘Seven Sisters’ Region

Dhaka: Controversial Bangladeshi politician Hasnat Abdullah, leader of the National Citizen Party, has once again stirred tensions with India, demanding that the Indian High Commissioner in Dhaka be expelled from the country. Known for his anti-India rhetoric, Abdullah made the remarks during a rally in Comilla on Wednesday, December 17, at a time when diplomatic strains between India and Bangladesh are already high.

Expulsion Demand and Anti-India Statements

Addressing the crowd, Abdullah said, “India summoned our High Commissioner and reprimanded him. Bangladesh should not only reprimand the Indian High Commissioner but also expel him from the country for sheltering the murderous Sheikh Hasina.” Earlier this week, Abdullah had threatened India’s northeastern states, commonly referred to as the ‘Seven Sisters,’ stirring strong reactions from Indian leaders. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma issued a stern warning to Abdullah in response.

Threat to India’s Northeast

Last year, Abdullah played a key role in violent movements aimed at toppling Sheikh Hasina’s government. During the rally, he threatened that Bangladesh would support separatists in India’s northeastern region and seek to detach the Seven Sisters from the mainland if India destabilizes Bangladesh or shelters opposition forces.

Growing Diplomatic Tensions

Abdullah’s statements come in the wake of escalating India-Bangladesh tensions. Following the announcement of elections in Bangladesh this month, anti-India rhetoric in the country has intensified. On Wednesday, a group under the banner of ‘July Unity’ attempted to march toward the Indian High Commission in Dhaka, prompting clashes with police before being stopped. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs had earlier summoned Bangladesh’s High Commissioner in New Delhi to convey serious concerns over the security of the Indian mission.