Relations between Bangladesh and India have become strained following recent violent protests in Bangladesh and subsequent diplomatic incidents. Both nations have made statements regarding the stability of their relationship, and the events have led to protests in India.
Key Incidents Fueling Tensions
Killing of Dipu Chandra Das: Dipu Chandra Das, 27, a Hindu minority member and garment factory worker, was killed by a mob last week in Mymensingh, northern Bangladesh, after being accused of blasphemy. His body was subsequently tied to a tree and set on fire. Videos of the incident circulated on social media, generating public condemnation in both India and Bangladesh.
Bangladesh's interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, stated that such violence would not be tolerated and pledged accountability for those involved. Bangladeshi police have arrested 12 individuals in connection with Das's killing.
Sharif Osman Hadi's Death: The incident involving Das occurred during wider violent protests over the death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi in Dhaka. Hadi's supporters alleged that the main suspect, reportedly associated with the Awami League—the party of deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina—had fled to India. This allegation contributed to anti-India sentiment in Bangladesh, a Muslim-majority nation. Bangladeshi police stated there was no confirmation of the suspect having left the country.
Diplomatic and Public Reactions
In recent days, both South Asian nations have suspended visa services in several cities, including Delhi. They have also exchanged accusations regarding the security of their diplomatic missions and summoned each other's high commissioners to address security concerns.
Riva Ganguly Das, a former Indian high commissioner to Dhaka, expressed hope for de-escalation and noted the volatile situation in Bangladesh. Humayun Kabir, a former senior Bangladeshi diplomat, described the current level of suspicion and mistrust between the two countries as unprecedented and emphasized the importance of protecting diplomatic missions.
Underlying Dynamics and Domestic Context
Anti-India sentiment exists among a segment of the Bangladeshi population, stemming from perceptions of Indian influence, particularly during the 15-year rule of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This sentiment has intensified following Hasina's refuge in India, as India has not repatriated her despite requests from Dhaka. Recent weeks have seen anti-India statements by some young leaders.
Bangladeshi security forces prevented protesters from marching toward the Indian high commission in Dhaka. Last week, the Indian assistant high commission in Chittagong was pelted with stones, leading to a strong reaction from India. Police detained 12 individuals in connection with the Chittagong incident, who were later released without charges.
In India, counter-rallies occurred. Bangladesh objected to a protest by a Hindu group outside its diplomatic premises in Delhi, terming the protest "unjustifiable."
Analysts have stated that the killing of Dipu Chandra Das has prompted discussions regarding the safety of minority groups and civil society activists in Bangladesh. They note increased assertiveness from religious fundamentalist groups following the departure of former Prime Minister Hasina. Reports include desecration of Sufi shrines, attacks on Hindus, restrictions on women's participation in football in certain areas, and curtailment of music and cultural events by radical Islamists. Human rights organizations have also documented an increase in mob violence in Bangladesh over the past year.
Asif Bin Ali, a Bangladeshi political analyst, stated that hardline societal elements perceive themselves as mainstream and oppose pluralism or diversity of thought. He further stated that these groups contribute to the dehumanization of individuals and institutions by associating them with a pro-India narrative, which he suggests emboldens attacks.
In Bangladesh, some suspect Islamist radicals of involvement in the vandalism and arson of buildings belonging to two Bangladeshi dailies, The Daily Star and Prothom Alo, and a cultural institution last week. These institutions were accused of being pro-India. Civil society activists in Bangladesh have criticized the interim administration's response to the recent violence.
Challenges for the Interim Government
Prior to the protests, the interim government faced scrutiny concerning its capacity to maintain law and order and achieve objectives amidst political instability. Ashok Swain, a professor of peace and conflict research at Uppsala University in Sweden, stated that right-wing leaders in both nations are issuing provocative statements, which he suggests contributes to tension and public anger. He also stated that segments of the Indian media are amplifying events in Bangladesh, presenting a narrative of the country descending into communal chaos. Swain highlighted that stability in Bangladesh is significant for India's security, especially in its north-eastern region.
There is a consensus that an elected government would be better equipped to address Bangladesh's internal and external challenges. The country is scheduled to hold elections on February 12. Until then, the interim administration under Muhammad Yunus faces the task of managing potential further violence.