New Delhi: India on Tuesday summoned the Bangladesh High Commissioner in New Delhi to convey serious concerns over the security situation in Dhaka, particularly relating to the safety of the Indian High Commission and its personnel. The move reflects growing unease in New Delhi over recent developments in Bangladesh and marks a fresh strain in bilateral relations.
According to officials familiar with the meeting, India’s Ministry of External Affairs expressed concern over reports of threats and planned protests near the Indian High Commission in Dhaka. Indian authorities pointed to the activities of certain extremist groups and warned that such actions could endanger diplomatic staff and property. India stressed that ensuring the safety of foreign missions is a core responsibility of the host country under international norms.
As a precautionary step, the Indian Visa Application Centre in Dhaka temporarily suspended operations on Tuesday, citing the prevailing security environment. Indian officials said the decision was taken purely in the interest of public safety and would be reviewed depending on ground conditions.
The diplomatic engagement comes amid heightened political tensions in Bangladesh ahead of national elections scheduled early next year. The country is currently governed by an interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus, following months of unrest and protests.
Relations between the two neighbours have been under pressure since former Bangladeshi prime minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India earlier this year after violent protests in Dhaka. Bangladeshi authorities have since sought her extradition, while political groups within Bangladesh have staged demonstrations both for and against her return, adding to the volatile atmosphere.
In recent days, groups in Dhaka reportedly announced plans to march towards the Indian High Commission, prompting alarm in New Delhi. Indian officials also flagged public statements by some political actors in Bangladesh that were viewed as hostile and potentially destabilising for regional security.
The latest summons followed an earlier diplomatic exchange in which Bangladesh had called in the Indian High Commissioner in Dhaka to protest remarks allegedly made by Sheikh Hasina from Indian territory. Dhaka argued that such statements could interfere with its internal political process, particularly in the run up to the elections.
Despite the sharp tone, Indian officials reiterated that New Delhi supports peace, stability and democratic processes in Bangladesh. India underlined that it has no interest in interfering in Bangladesh’s internal affairs but expects firm action to prevent threats against its diplomatic presence.
Bangladesh has not issued an immediate public response following the meeting in New Delhi. Observers note that both sides appear keen to prevent the situation from escalating further, even as mistrust has grown over political rhetoric, security concerns and unresolved extradition demands.
Analysts say the episode highlights the fragile state of ties between India and Bangladesh at a sensitive political moment, with both governments facing the challenge of managing domestic pressures while keeping a long standing regional relationship on stable ground.