Tensions rise in Bangladesh amid anti-India protests, New Delhi flags security concerns

The political situation in Bangladesh has turned tense once again after hundreds of protestors attempted to march towards the Indian High Commission in Dhaka on Wednesday. Police stopped the demonstrators near Rampura Bridge, citing security concerns in the diplomatic zone.

The protest, organised under the banner of ‘July Unity’, featured strong anti-India slogans and demands for the extradition of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in India. Demonstrators alleged that India-backed political parties and sections of the media were conspiring against Bangladesh and interfering in its internal affairs.

A few hours before the protest, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) summoned Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to India, Riaz Hamidullah, to express serious concern over the security of India’s diplomatic mission in Dhaka. The MEA stressed that Bangladesh’s interim government is responsible for ensuring the safety of foreign missions in line with international norms. Owing to security concerns, the Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC) in Dhaka was also temporarily shut.

Bangladesh is scheduled to hold parliamentary elections on February 12. India has said it expects the polls to be conducted in a free and fair manner. Responding to this, Bangladesh’s interim government adviser on foreign affairs, M Touhid Hossain, said Dhaka does not require advice from neighbouring countries on how to conduct elections, and accused India of remaining silent during alleged irregularities in past polls.

Tensions have further escalated following the killing of Sharif Usman Hadi, a prominent figure in recent anti-government protests, who was shot dead by unidentified assailants. His death triggered widespread outrage among protestors.

Meanwhile, Sheikh Hasina’s son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, has expressed concern over the current situation, alleging that the interim government is empowering hardline Islamist groups and that growing Bangladesh-Pakistan ties pose security risks for India.