India has summoned Bangladesh’s High Commissioner in New Delhi as diplomatic tensions between the two South Asian neighbors continue to escalate, driven by security concerns and sharp political disagreements. The move follows a similar step taken by Dhaka last week, underscoring the fragile state of bilateral relations at a sensitive moment in Bangladesh’s political transition.
In an official statement, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that Bangladesh High Commissioner Riaz Hamidullah was called in on December 17 and formally briefed on New Delhi’s concerns.
“The Bangladesh High Commissioner to India… was today summoned by the Ministry of External Affairs and apprised of India’s strong concerns at the deteriorating security environment in Bangladesh,” the MEA said.
Indian authorities highlighted threats issued by extremist elements, warning of potential attempts to create a security situation around the Indian Mission in Dhaka. New Delhi stressed that it expects Bangladesh to meet its diplomatic obligations by ensuring the safety of Indian missions and personnel.
Relations have further soured following remarks by a Bangladeshi political leader suggesting the possibility of offering shelter to groups hostile to India. New Delhi strongly rejected these statements, reiterating that it has never allowed its territory to be used for activities against Bangladesh.
The diplomatic spat is unfolding against a turbulent political backdrop in Dhaka. Bangladesh has demanded the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and ex–Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, who were sentenced to death by a Bangladeshi court in a crimes against humanity case linked to the violent suppression of student protests in 2024. India has not publicly commented on the extradition request.
Bangladesh is scheduled to hold national elections on February 12, with Nobel Peace Prize laureate Mohammad Yunus serving as chief adviser to the interim government. Hasina’s Awami League, which ruled for 15 years, has been barred from contesting.
Despite the tensions, India reaffirmed its support for stability and democratic processes in Bangladesh, emphasizing that it seeks “peace and stability” and “free, fair, inclusive and credible elections” conducted in a secure environment.
