Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Relations between India and Bangladesh have deteriorated sharply following political killings and communal violence in Bangladesh, triggering protests, diplomatic exchanges, visa suspensions, and international attention ahead of Dhaka’s upcoming elections.
Killing Sparks Protests And Political Unrest
The situation escalated after the killing of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi in Dhaka, a prominent figure of last year’s July uprising. His death triggered widespread protests across Bangladesh, with supporters accusing the state of inaction. The unrest intensified further after Dipu Chandra Das, a Hindu factory worker, was lynched in Mymensingh over alleged blasphemy, leading to demonstrations by minority rights groups in Dhaka.
US Engages Yunus Amid Crisis
US Special Envoy for South and Central Asia Sergio Gor held a phone conversation with Bangladesh’s interim chief adviser Muhammad Yunus, discussing recent developments and reiterating US interest in stability and prosperity in the region. Yunus assured that general elections scheduled for February 12 would be free, fair, and peaceful, while warning of alleged attempts by elements linked to the former Awami League regime to sabotage the polls.
Bangladesh Suspends Visa Services
Amid mounting protests outside Bangladeshi missions in India, Dhaka suspended visa services at its High Commission in New Delhi and missions in Tripura and Siliguri, citing unavoidable circumstances. Earlier, India had also suspended visa services at its Chittagong mission following security concerns.
Threats Of Mass Movement And Fresh Attacks
Inqilab Moncho, the platform led by Hadi, issued an ultimatum demanding swift justice, warning of a mass movement to topple the interim government if demands were ignored. Tensions rose further after another youth leader, Motaleb Shikder, was shot in Khulna, raising fears of targeted violence against figures linked to last year’s uprising.
India Raises Minority And Security Concerns
India summoned Bangladesh’s envoy, expressing concern over attacks on minorities and threats to diplomatic missions. New Delhi rejected what it termed misleading narratives about security lapses at the Bangladesh High Commission and urged Dhaka to ensure justice in the lynching of Dipu Chandra Das while safeguarding minority rights.
Diplomatic Presence Under Review
Bangladesh indicated it may review the scale of its diplomatic presence in India if tensions persist. Dhaka strongly rejected India’s assessment of protests as minor, calling such portrayals misleading and downplaying the seriousness of the situation.
Sheikh Hasina Criticises Interim Government
Former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, currently in exile in India, blamed Yunus for Bangladesh’s instability, alleging that extremists were emboldened under the interim setup and that minority protection and relations with India had suffered. She warned that regional stability was at risk until legitimate governance was restored.
Media Houses Targeted During Unrest
The unrest also saw violent attacks on major Bangladeshi media outlets, including Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, forcing temporary suspension of print operations. Yunus condemned the attacks as assaults on press freedom and promised action, with authorities later identifying multiple suspects.
Roots Of The Current Crisis
The assassination of Sharif Osman Hadi, who later died in Singapore after being shot in Dhaka, became the immediate trigger for protests and a national day of mourning. The violence has raised serious concerns over law and order, minority safety, and the credibility of Bangladesh’s democratic process just weeks before the elections.
