Bangladesh Questions India's Decision to Recall Diplomats' Families Citing No Security Threat
Bangladesh has officially stated that there is no security situation in the country that justifies India's recent decision to recall the family members of its diplomats from Dhaka. This response comes after New Delhi cited precautionary safety measures due to rising extremist activities ahead of Bangladesh's upcoming general elections scheduled for February 12.
Foreign Affairs Adviser's Statement on Security Concerns
Bangladesh's Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain addressed the media at the foreign ministry, asserting that there was "no reason" for India's move. He emphasized that foreign diplomats and their families are not facing any threat within Bangladesh's borders. "There is no situation here that would indicate danger for Indian diplomats," Hossain stated categorically during the briefing.
Hossain revealed that Bangladesh has not received any formal communication from India regarding specific security concerns. "Perhaps India has some apprehension or wants to convey a message, but I cannot identify any clear reason," he added, drawing from his previous experience as Bangladesh's deputy high commissioner in India.
India's Precautionary Measures and Diplomatic Operations
India implemented the advisory last week, recommending that families of diplomats and officials posted in Bangladesh return home temporarily. This decision was described by Indian government sources as a precautionary measure in response to increased activities of extremist elements and recent anti-India protests that authorities feared could escalate.
Despite this recall, all five Indian diplomatic missions in Bangladesh continue to function normally. These include the High Commission in Dhaka and diplomatic posts in Khulna, Chattogram, Rajshahi, and Sylhet. The Indian High Commission in Dhaka recently hosted a Republic Day reception, demonstrating ongoing diplomatic engagement.
Bangladesh's Position on India's Internal Decision
Hossain characterized India's move as an internal matter, stating, "It is entirely their internal matter. They can ask their officials or families to leave at any time." He clarified that Bangladesh has no objection if Indian diplomats choose to send their family members back, adding, "If they want to do so, there is nothing we can do about it."
Indian officials have indicated that this measure is temporary and will be reviewed later. An anonymous official explained, "It's for the time being and will be reviewed later," while confirming that missions remain fully operational with staff at full strength.
Regional Context of Diplomatic Security Measures
This development occurs within the broader context of India's diplomatic security protocols in neighboring countries. Currently, Afghanistan remains the only posting where Indian officials are not accompanied by their families. While diplomats in Pakistan are technically permitted to bring families, they generally avoid doing so following past security advisories, making Bangladesh's situation notable within regional diplomatic practices.
The timing of India's advisory, coming weeks before Bangladesh's national elections, adds political significance to the security considerations. Both countries maintain important bilateral relations, with this incident highlighting how security perceptions can influence diplomatic operations even between friendly nations.
