DHAKA, Bangladesh — Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said the longstanding relationship between India and Bangladesh remains resilient despite recent tensions, expressing confidence that bilateral ties will endure the current period of political and security uncertainty.
In an interview, Hasina thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the people of India for what she described as their support and humanitarian concern, calling India Bangladesh’s closest neighbor and most important partner.
She said the two countries are bound by shared history, geography, and a mutual commitment to regional stability, adding that a stable and democratic Bangladesh is in the interests of both nations. Hasina said India was right to continue emphasizing democratic principles, the protection of minorities, and regional stability, and to seek a reliable partner in Dhaka led by a democratically elected government that reflects the will of the people.
Relations between the two countries have come under strain amid reports of escalating attacks on Hindu minorities and incidents involving Indian diplomatic missions during the tenure of the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus. Bangladesh is scheduled to hold national elections on February 12, against the backdrop of a worsening security situation and growing political divisions.
Hasina said she remains confident that the foundations of the bilateral relationship are strong enough to withstand the current challenges and would be further strengthened once Bangladeshis are able to freely choose their next government.
India has in recent weeks voiced serious concern over continued violence against religious minorities in Bangladesh, including Hindus, Christians, and Buddhists. New Delhi has said it is closely monitoring developments and has condemned specific incidents, including the killing of a Hindu youth in Mymensingh, while calling for those responsible to be held accountable.
Indian officials have also rejected what they describe as a false anti-India narrative circulating in Bangladesh and have emphasized that maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of diplomatic missions are the responsibility of the interim government.
Last month, India summoned Bangladesh’s high commissioner to convey concerns over the deteriorating security environment and the activities of extremist elements that had announced plans to create instability around the Indian mission in Dhaka. New Delhi has said it expects Bangladesh to meet its diplomatic obligations by ensuring the safety of Indian missions and personnel.
Indian authorities have cited documentation of more than 2,900 incidents of violence against minorities during the interim government’s tenure, including killings, arson, and land seizures, arguing that such incidents cannot be dismissed as exaggerations or routine political unrest.
Hasina said she believes bilateral ties will stabilize once democratic processes are restored, reiterating that strong India–Bangladesh relations are vital for regional peace and cooperation. (Source: IANS)
