Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Amid a period of diplomatic unease between India and Bangladesh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has written to Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, chief adviser to Bangladesh’s interim government, extending greetings on the occasion of the country’s Independence Day and reaffirming India’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
In his letter, Prime Minister Modi referred to the shared sacrifices and historical legacy that form the bedrock of India-Bangladesh relations. “This day stands as a testament to our shared history and sacrifices, that have laid the foundation of our bilateral partnership,” he wrote. “The spirit of the Liberation War of Bangladesh continues to remain a guiding light for our relationship, which has flourished across multiple domains, bringing tangible benefits to our peoples.”
The Prime Minister added, “We remain committed to advancing this partnership, driven by our common aspirations for peace, stability, and prosperity, and based on mutual sensitivity to each other’s interests and concerns.”
The letter comes at a time when diplomatic relations between New Delhi and Dhaka have been under strain following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, a long-standing ally of India. Hasina was forced to flee to India in the wake of massive anti-government protests in 2024, resulting in the installation of an interim government headed by Muhammad Yunus.
Concerns Over Minority Safety
India has voiced concern over recent attacks on minorities in Bangladesh, with officials stating that safeguarding religious communities is a matter of regional importance. While Bangladesh’s interim government has termed the incidents as “politically motivated,” India remains engaged on the issue through various diplomatic channels.
External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar confirmed that New Delhi is in regular contact with Dhaka and is actively pursuing discussions on security and minority rights.
In December, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri visited Bangladesh and raised India’s concerns with Bangladeshi Foreign Adviser Mohammad Touhid Hossain. Misri reportedly conveyed that the attacks on religious institutions and places of worship were “regrettable” and needed to be addressed urgently.
Historic and Strategic Ties
India’s ties with Bangladesh trace back to 1971, when New Delhi extended military and diplomatic support to the Bangladeshi Liberation War against Pakistan. Over the decades, the two nations have deepened cooperation in trade, security, connectivity, and people-to-people exchanges.
Bangladesh holds strategic importance in India’s neighbourhood-first policy and Act East initiative, making the current political transition and evolving leadership in Dhaka critical for regional diplomacy.
