India summons Bangladesh High Commissioner over worsening security in Dhaka, raising concerns about extremist threats, diplomatic mission safety, and lack of investigation by the interim government, while reaffirming support for peaceful, credible elections and regional stability.
India on Wednesday formally summoned the Bangladesh High Commissioner to India, Riaz Hamidullah, to convey strong concerns over the rapidly deteriorating security situation in Dhaka, particularly in light of threats posed by extremist elements targeting Indian diplomatic establishments in Bangladesh.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the Bangladeshi envoy was called in to discuss recent developments that have raised alarm in New Delhi, including announcements by certain extremist groups indicating plans to create a hostile security environment around the Indian High Commission in Dhaka. India conveyed its expectation that Bangladesh, as the host country, must ensure the safety and security of foreign diplomatic missions in accordance with international diplomatic norms.
According to the MEA, the Indian side categorically rejected what it described as a “false and misleading narrative” being propagated by extremist elements regarding recent incidents in Bangladesh. Officials underlined that such narratives risk aggravating tensions and undermining the long-standing bilateral relationship between the two neighbours.
The Indian government also expressed concern over what it termed the lack of transparency and accountability on the part of the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government in Bangladesh. The MEA noted that despite repeated concerns, no comprehensive investigation findings or credible evidence related to the recent incidents have been formally shared with India.
In a strongly worded statement, the MEA reiterated India’s commitment to peace, stability, and democratic processes in Bangladesh. “India has close and friendly relations with the people of Bangladesh rooted in the liberation struggle, and strengthened through various developmental and people-to-people initiatives. We are in favour of peace and stability in Bangladesh and have consistently called for free, fair, inclusive and credible elections, conducted in a peaceful atmosphere,” the statement said.
India further urged the interim government in Dhaka to take immediate and effective steps to ensure the safety of Indian diplomatic missions and personnel, emphasizing that protection of foreign missions is a fundamental obligation under international law. The MEA stressed that any failure to uphold these responsibilities could have serious diplomatic implications.
The diplomatic engagement comes against the backdrop of rising political uncertainty and security challenges in Bangladesh following the formation of the interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. India has been closely monitoring the evolving situation, particularly amid reports of heightened activities by radical groups and increased volatility on the streets of Dhaka.
Earlier this week, India had also rejected assertions made by the interim government of Bangladesh, which had suggested that New Delhi was adopting a partisan or interventionist stance regarding Bangladesh’s internal political developments. In response, the MEA clarified that India’s position has remained consistent and principled.
“India categorically rejects the assertions made by the interim Government of Bangladesh in its press note dated 14 December 2025. We have consistently reiterated our position in favour of free, fair, inclusive and credible elections being held in Bangladesh in a peaceful atmosphere,” the MEA said.
The statement further emphasized that India has never permitted its territory to be used for activities hostile to the interests of Bangladesh or its people. “India has never allowed its territory to be used for activities inimical to the interests of the friendly people of Bangladesh. We expect that the interim Government of Bangladesh will take all necessary measures for ensuring internal law and order, including for the purpose of holding peaceful elections,” it added.
Diplomatic observers view India’s summoning of the Bangladeshi envoy as a significant signal of concern rather than a rupture in ties. India and Bangladesh share a deep and multifaceted relationship encompassing trade, connectivity, security cooperation, water-sharing agreements, and cultural exchanges. However, analysts note that sustained instability in Dhaka and threats to diplomatic missions could strain bilateral engagement if not addressed promptly.
Security experts have also pointed out that extremist activities, if left unchecked, could have regional implications, particularly given the shared border and close economic interdependence between the two countries. India’s emphasis on stability and peaceful elections reflects its broader strategic interest in a secure and democratic neighbourhood.
As Bangladesh prepares for a critical political transition, India’s message underscores the importance of maintaining law and order, countering extremist narratives, and safeguarding diplomatic norms. New Delhi has made it clear that while it respects Bangladesh’s sovereignty, it expects responsible governance and adherence to international obligations during this sensitive period.
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The coming weeks are likely to be crucial as the interim government faces mounting pressure to restore confidence, ensure security, and create conditions conducive to credible elections, while managing its diplomatic relations with key regional partners, including India.
