Tensions between Bangladesh and India have escalated following a strong protest from the Bangladeshi government against comments made by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. In a recent rally in Jharkhand, Amit Shah, while campaigning for the upcoming General Assembly Elections 2024, made statements about ‘Bangladeshi infiltrators’ that have been met with severe criticism from Dhaka.
The Bangladeshi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a public statement on their official Facebook account, conveyed their ‘serious reservation, deep sense of hurt and extreme displeasure’ at Amit Shah’s remarks. They formally handed over a protest note to India’s Deputy High Commissioner in Dhaka, urging the Indian government to advise its political leaders against making such ‘objectionable and unacceptable’ statements.
The statement highlighted that such remarks, particularly coming from a position of authority, undermine the spirit of mutual respect and understanding between the two neighboring countries. Bangladesh emphasized the importance of maintaining friendly relations with India and expressed concern that Shah’s comments could damage these ties.
Amit Shah’s comments were not limited to ‘Bangladeshi infiltrators’. He also criticized the Jharkhand government for ‘patronising’ both Bangladeshi and Rohingya infiltrators, stating that they were ‘marrying our daughters which won’t be tolerated’. He further emphasized that the BJP believes in the politics of justice and not of caste, creed, or religion.
These recent events come against the backdrop of already strained relations between India and Bangladesh. The relationship has been particularly fragile since Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country in July 2024, raising further concerns about political stability in the region.
The Bangladeshi government’s strong reaction to Amit Shah’s statements highlights the sensitivity surrounding the issue of migration and its impact on diplomatic relations. It remains to be seen how India will respond to Bangladesh’s protest and whether this will lead to a further deterioration of relations between the two countries.
