Diplomatic Tensions Rise Ahead of Elections
Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on December 14, 2025, summoned India's High Commissioner Pranay Verma to convey serious concerns regarding alleged anti-election activities being orchestrated from Indian territory. The diplomatic move comes as Bangladesh prepares for critical national elections scheduled for February.
Dhaka specifically accused former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her supporters, identified as leaders and activists of the Awami League party, of using Indian soil to undermine the electoral process and incite unrest within Bangladesh.
Allegations of Cross-Border Incitement and Violence
Bangladeshi officials informed High Commissioner Verma that Sheikh Hasina, who resigned as Prime Minister on August 5, 2024, and subsequently fled to India, has been making 'provocative' and 'incendiary' public statements from Indian territory. These statements are believed to be encouraging her supporters to engage in violent activities aimed at disrupting the upcoming parliamentary elections.
The concerns were heightened following an assassination attempt on political activist Sharif Osman Hadi in Dhaka, who remains on life support after being shot by an identified Awami League activist. Bangladesh sought India's cooperation in preventing suspects in this attack from escaping to India and requested their immediate apprehension and extradition if they enter Indian territory.
The Bangladeshi Foreign Ministry also raised issues about fugitive Awami League leaders and activists residing in India, alleging they are attempting to:
- Incite violence
- Carry out 'terrorist' acts within Bangladesh
- Plan, organize, and facilitate violent acts to obstruct the election process
Dhaka reiterated its demand for the extradition of Sheikh Hasina and former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal to face sentences passed by judicial authorities in Bangladesh.
India's Response and Bilateral Relations
In response to the summoning, India categorically rejected the assertions made by the interim government of Bangladesh. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs stated that India has 'never allowed its territory to be used for activities inimical to the interests of the friendly people of Bangladesh.'
High Commissioner Verma conveyed India's position, emphasizing that New Delhi looks forward to peaceful elections in Bangladesh and is ready to extend cooperation. India also clarified that Sheikh Hasina's statements were made in a personal capacity. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs reiterated its consistent stance in favor of 'free, fair, inclusive and credible elections' being held in Bangladesh in a peaceful atmosphere.
The diplomatic exchange underscores growing tensions between the two nations as Bangladesh navigates a sensitive pre-election period under an interim government, following Sheikh Hasina's resignation amidst widespread protests in August 2024.
5 Comments
ZmeeLove
Bangladesh rightly seeks to prevent electoral disruption, but its demands for extradition might complicate bilateral relations further. A more collaborative approach, focusing on shared security interests rather than direct accusations, could be more fruitful.
Coccinella
The interim government's move signals deep mistrust, which is concerning for regional stability. However, India's commitment to 'free, fair, inclusive and credible elections' indicates a potential path for cooperation if solid evidence is presented.
Eugene Alta
Extradite Hasina! She's clearly destabilizing the upcoming elections from Indian soil.
Donatello
Demanding extradition for political statements? This sets a dangerous precedent.
Leonardo
It's high time India took responsibility for allowing such activities. Elections must be protected!