India Summons Bangladesh Envoy Over Security Threats to Indian Mission in Dhaka

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India has summoned Bangladesh's High Commissioner, Riaz Hamidullah, to express concern over the deteriorating security situation in the neighboring country, which threatens the safety of the Indian mission in Dhaka. This development marks a new low in strained bilateral relations, which have been under pressure since the collapse of Sheikh Hasina's government in August 2024. According to sources, extremist forces have planned protests around the Indian high commission in Dhaka, prompting India to serve a formal diplomatic representation to the Bangladeshi envoy. The Indian government expects the interim administration to ensure the safety of its missions in Bangladesh, citing its diplomatic obligations. The summoning of the Bangladeshi envoy follows a fiery speech by National Citizen Party leader Hasnat Abdullah, who accused India of sheltering separatist forces and claimed that Bangladesh can sever the seven northeastern states from the rest of India. The Indian government has rejected this narrative, citing a lack of evidence from the Bangladeshi authorities. The tensions between India and Bangladesh have been escalating since last year, with New Delhi criticizing the caretaker administration for failing to tackle minority oppression and the resurgence of radical forces in the country. In response, the Bangladeshi foreign ministry had urged India to prevent the escape of suspects involved in the attempted assassination of a Bangladeshi leader to Indian territory. India has maintained that it has always ensured that its territory is not used for activities inimical to Bangladesh's interests. The two countries have close and friendly relations rooted in the liberation struggle and strengthened through various developmental and people-to-people initiatives.