A fresh diplomatic crisis has erupted between India and Bangladesh, prompting New Delhi to take a firm stance. The Indian government summoned Bangladesh's High Commissioner on December 17, 2025, following alarming statements from across the border. The remarks, which included a threat to cut off India's northeastern states—often referred to as the 'Seven Sisters'—and suggestions of sheltering anti-India forces, have triggered a serious diplomatic row.
India's Strong Diplomatic Response
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) delivered a clear and unambiguous message during the meeting with the Bangladeshi envoy. India issued a formal demarche, categorically rejecting what it termed 'extremist narratives' that question India's sovereignty over its northeastern region. The Indian side emphasized that diplomatic missions must be protected and that provocative rhetoric would face consequences. This strong response underscores the seriousness with which New Delhi views the comments.
As a tangible sign of the heightened tensions, the Indian visa application centre in Dhaka has been temporarily shut down. This move signals the level of concern in New Delhi regarding the perceived threats to its diplomatic staff and interests. The Indian government has flagged what it considers serious security lapses in the current environment.
A Pattern of Provocative Rhetoric
Indian officials have pointed out that this is not an isolated incident. They note a pattern of similar remarks emanating from Bangladesh in recent weeks, all of which have sought to cast doubt on India's sovereignty in the Northeast. Some comments have even hinted at the possibility of external involvement in the region's affairs.
India has firmly rejected all such allegations. The government has warned that this kind of destabilising rhetoric poses a direct threat to regional peace and stability. By summoning the High Commissioner, India has drawn a clear red line, indicating that its patience with such statements is wearing thin.
New Delhi's Clear Red Line
The core of India's message is a stern warning. Any attempt to threaten India's territorial unity, integrity, or the security of its diplomatic presence will be met with firm and decisive action. The MEA's demarche serves as an official record of India's protest and a formal communication of its position.
This diplomatic flare-up introduces a new strain in the historically complex relationship between the two neighbours. While both countries have worked on enhancing connectivity and trade, political statements targeting India's sensitive northeastern states have opened a contentious front. The situation remains fluid, with India making it clear that the onus is on Dhaka to control inflammatory narratives and ensure the safety of Indian diplomatic personnel.
