The Indian government has issued a strong rebuttal to what it terms "misleading" and "propaganda" reports in sections of the Bangladeshi media regarding a protest outside the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified the incident, emphasizing the strong and friendly relations between the two neighbouring countries.
MEA Addresses Media Reports on Delhi Protest
On Thursday, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal, responded to queries concerning the media coverage in Bangladesh. The reports had covered a protest that took place outside the diplomatic mission of Bangladesh in the Chanakyapuri area of the national capital. The MEA spokesperson categorically stated that the portrayal of the event in certain Bangladeshi outlets was inaccurate and designed to mislead.
Jaiswal underscored that the authorities in India are committed to providing full security and protection to all diplomatic missions and personnel within the country. This is a standard protocol followed for all foreign embassies and high commissions. The statement aimed to dispel any notions of negligence or a targeted incident against the Bangladesh mission.
Details of the Incident and India's Stance
The protest in question was a localized event. According to the Indian perspective, such demonstrations are a part of the democratic fabric of the country, and lawful protests are permitted. However, the government ensures that they do not disrupt the functioning or safety of diplomatic premises. The police and security apparatus are always deployed to manage such situations and maintain order.
The core of India's response was to reject the narrative being built in some quarters of the Bangladeshi press. The MEA's intervention highlights its sensitivity to narratives that could potentially strain the bilateral relationship. By promptly addressing the issue, India sought to prevent the amplification of a misleading account that could create unnecessary diplomatic friction.
Reaffirming Strong India-Bangladesh Ties
Beyond addressing the specific incident, the MEA statement served a larger purpose. It reiterated the importance India places on its relationship with Bangladesh. The spokesperson emphasized that the partnership between the two nations is robust and multifaceted, built on shared history, cultural ties, and mutual respect.
India and Bangladesh share one of the longest borders in the world and have a comprehensive partnership covering areas like trade, connectivity, security, and development cooperation. The Indian government's quick clarification is seen as an effort to insulate the broader relationship from being affected by isolated incidents or misreporting. The message was clear: while protests may occur in a vibrant democracy, they do not reflect state policy or diminish India's commitment to diplomatic norms and its friendship with Bangladesh.
The episode underscores the challenges of managing perceptions in the age of instant media. It also demonstrates the Indian government's proactive approach in engaging with and correcting narratives that it believes are factually incorrect and detrimental to its foreign policy interests, especially with a crucial neighbour like Bangladesh.
