The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) took a firm diplomatic step on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, by summoning the Bangladesh High Commissioner to India. The move was a direct response to escalating security concerns surrounding the Indian High Commission in Dhaka and inflammatory anti-India rhetoric from political figures in Bangladesh.
Diplomatic Protest Over Security Threats
The MEA conveyed India's "strong concerns" regarding the deteriorating security environment in Bangladesh to High Commissioner Riaz Hamidullah. Officials specifically highlighted the activities of certain extremist elements who have publicly announced plans to create a security situation around the Indian Mission in the Bangladeshi capital.
This formal diplomatic protest was triggered by a public speech from Hasnat Abdullah, the leader of the National Citizen Party (NCP). In his address, Abdullah issued a threat to isolate India's northeastern states, often referred to as the 'Seven Sisters'. He stated that if Bangladesh were destabilised, his group would provide refuge to separatist elements from India's Northeast.
India Rejects "False Narrative" and Calls for Action
In an official statement, the MEA said India "completely rejects the false narrative" being propagated by these extremist elements about recent events in Bangladesh. The ministry expressed disappointment that the interim government in Bangladesh had not conducted a thorough investigation into the incidents nor shared meaningful evidence with Indian authorities.
"We expect the interim government to ensure the safety of Missions and Posts in Bangladesh in keeping with its diplomatic obligations," the MEA's statement emphasised. Despite the current tensions, the ministry reaffirmed the close and friendly relations between the peoples of both nations, rooted in Bangladesh's liberation struggle.
Context of Bilateral Relations
The diplomatic summons occurred against a complex backdrop. Just prior to this event, Bangladesh's Victory Day was celebrated at its embassy in Delhi, where High Commissioner Hamidullah had spoken positively about bilateral ties. He highlighted the mutually beneficial relationship focused on prosperity, peace, and regional security, noting the mutual interdependence of the two neighbours.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar had also extended greetings to Bangladesh on Bijoy Dibosh (Victory Day) on December 16, underscoring the ongoing diplomatic engagement. India's statement reiterated its support for "free, fair, inclusive and credible elections" in Bangladesh, conducted peacefully.
The incident underscores the delicate balance in India-Bangladesh relations, where deep historical and people-to-people ties coexist with periodic challenges posed by political rhetoric and security concerns affecting diplomatic premises.
