[🇧🇩] Indo-Bangla Relation: India's Regional Ambition, Geopolitical Reality, and Strategic Options For Bangladesh

[Krishna with Flute]

Did Rishi Sunak do any favor to India or Hindus? Tulsi won't either. She will serve the US interest not India.

I fully agree with you. We need a India friendly government not an Indian. This is the reason why Indians wanted Trump to come to power and not Kamala. Trump is pro India and friend of Modi. Tulsi will have full freedom to pursue her Pro Hindu agenda which is in the interest of US as well. There are some major Blocks. On one side, it is US and Europe, On one side it is Islamic nations, on other side it is India. In US and Europe block, there are 2 groups. One is leftist and another is nationalist. BJP and Republicans are both nationalist and thus they enjoys batter relation when they are in power.

 

[Saif]

Tulsi will have full freedom to pursue her Pro Hindu agenda which is in the interest of US as well.

When did pro Hindu agenda become a US interest?

 

[Krishna with Flute]

When did pro Hindu agenda become a US interest?

You see, there is nothing pro or anti. It is all about your perception of what serves your interest well. Trump believes that US and India can be batter allies and complement each other.

Trump has said that in his election speech and prior to that also. He had urged Bidden administration to Stop Indian students to go back to US after study.

 

[Vsdoc]

This is 2024 not 1970.

My post is in plain English.

I don't do Bangla.

 

[Saif]

My post is in plain English.

I don't do Bangla.

We don't have adequate number of slaughter houses in Dhaka. Things get worse during Eid Ul Adha. The pictures you have posted is the testament to that.

 

[Saif]

Don't know the meaning of ***** but guessing it to be something bad to insult me. You have no idea about me. I don't do chest beating about my family and wealth like you.

 

[Bilal9]

Guys thread now open but will be locked again if I even sniff anything unkosher.

 

[Saif]

Focus on opportunities, challenges in Bangladesh-India ties: Roundtable

Speakers at a roundtable discussion on Saturday explored the evolving dynamics of Bangladesh-India relations, with a focus on identifying opportunities, addressing challenges and charting a constructive path forward. They observed that the relationship is not defined by just a few days or mon

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Focus on opportunities, challenges in Bangladesh-India ties: Roundtable
UNB
Published :
Nov 30, 2024 18:48
Updated :
Nov 30, 2024 18:48

Speakers at a roundtable discussion on Saturday explored the evolving dynamics of Bangladesh-India relations, with a focus on identifying opportunities, addressing challenges and charting a constructive path forward.

They observed that the relationship is not defined by just a few days or months and remained optimistic that it will improve in the near future.

The South Asian Institute of Policy and Governance (SIPG), in collaboration with the Department of Political Science and Sociology (PSS) at North South University (NSU), hosted the discussion titled "Bangladesh-India Relations: Expectations, Challenges, and Future Prospects."

The event, held at NSU's Syndicate Hall, brought together a panel of experts and stakeholders to discuss the key issues between the two countries.

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, while speaking as the chief guest, underscored the critical need for fostering mutual trust and engaging in open, constructive dialogue as a means to overcome the existing challenges and unlock the full potential of Bangladesh-India bilateral cooperation.

He emphasised that the true measure of Bangladesh's success in enhancing bilateral ties with India would be rooted in national consensus and unity, which, he believes, will serve as the litmus test for the country's future progress in this regard.

The discussion featured a panel, including Dr SM Asaduzzaman Ripon, BNP Vice Chairman, Barrister Asaduzzaman Fuaad, joint member secretary of AB Party; Saquib Ali, former diplomat; Lt Gen (retd) Mohammad Mahfuzur Rahman, former Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division; and Prof Dr Mohammad Abdur Rob, Vice-Chancellor of Manarat International University.

These experts brought a range of perspectives to the discussion, addressing both the challenges and opportunities in strengthening bilateral relations between Bangladesh and India.

The panel was moderated by Dr M Jashim Uddin, Associate Prof at NSU's Department of Political Science and Sociology, noted that many Bangladeshis feel that the country has not received the expected support from India following the Liberation War of 1971.

He also highlighted the current tensions and challenges in the Bangladesh-India relationship, reflecting on how these historical and contemporary issues have shaped public perceptions and diplomatic efforts. He stated that a much-anticipated national unity is needed, giving the highest priority to our national interests.

In his opening remarks, Prof Sk. Tawfique M Haque, Director of SIPG, set the tone for the discussion by providing a comprehensive analysis of the historical, political, and economic factors that have shaped Bangladesh-India relations.

He stressed the importance of building a national consensus in Bangladesh to develop a more constructive, forward-looking relationship with India.

Barrister Fuaad emphasised the role of lobbying and political maneuvering in shaping Bangladesh-India relations. He argued that external pressures and vested interests have often complicated diplomatic efforts and undermined the spirit of cooperation.

Saquib Ali highlighted the lingering effects of colonial trauma as a significant barrier to smoother relations between the two nations. He observed that, historically, Bangladesh's leadership has often prioritized political party interests over national interests, with the people's welfare coming second.

Lt Gen (retd) Mohammad Mahfuzur Rahman brought attention to the growing influence of China in the region, noting that this has placed the Bangladesh-India relationship in a particularly delicate position.

Prof Dr Mohammad Abdur Rob echoed similar concerns, stating that India's regional aspirations and aggressive measures complicate efforts to build a cooperative relationship with Bangladesh.

Asaduzzaman Ripon expressed deep concern over the continued use of extremist narratives in Indian media, noting that these narratives, often propagated by previous regimes, continue to shape perceptions in both countries.

He also commended the students of North South University, particularly for their role in the July Revolution.

In his closing remarks, Prof Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, NSU Vice-Chancellor expressed a hopeful outlook on the future of Bangladesh-India relations.

Prof Chowdhury reaffirmed NSU's commitment to hosting meaningful dialogues that contribute to shaping the political and economic landscape of the region.

Acknowledging the deep historical, cultural, and economic ties between Bangladesh and India since 1971, Prof Chowdhury noted that while these connections are significant, it is also essential to address the issue of external interference in Bangladesh's internal affairs.​

 

[Saif]

Modi meets top cops on Bangladesh, Myanmar border security issues

India's emerging security concerns along the border with Bangladesh and Myanmar were discussed at a two-day conference of the country's top police officials addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Bhubaneshwar, the capital of Odisha

www.thedailystar.net

Modi meets top cops on Bangladesh, Myanmar border security issues

File photo

India's emerging security concerns along the border with Bangladesh and Myanmar were discussed at a two-day conference of the country's top police officials addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Bhubaneshwar, the capital of Odisha.

During the conference which ended today, "in-depth discussions were held on existing and emerging challenges to national security, including counter terrorism, left wing extremism, cybercrime, economic security, immigration, coastal security and narco-trafficking, " a readout issued by the Prime Minister's Office this evening said.

"Deliberations were also held on emerging security concerns along the border with Bangladesh and Myanmar, trends in urban policing and strategies for countering malicious narratives," it said adding "a review was undertaken of ……the security situation in the neighborhood," according to the readout.

The prime minister, who interacted with the security officials on the first day and spoke at the concluding session of the conference today, "offered valuable insights during the proceedings and laid a roadmap for the future," said the statement.

In his concluding address, Modi noted that wide-ranging discussions had been held during the conference on national and international dimensions of security challenges and expressed satisfaction on the counter strategies which had emerged from the discussions, it said.

The conference was also attended by Home Minister Amit Shah, principal secretary to the PM, national security adviser, ministers of state for home and central home secretary.

The conference, held in a hybrid format, was also attended by director generals of police and inspector generals of police of all states and federally-ruled territories and heads of the central armed police forces, physically and by over 750 officers of various ranks virtually from all states and federally-ruled territories.​

 

[Saif]

India must understand what the people of Bangladesh want

The tensions between the two countries have emerged because India has not been able to accept the reality of Bangladesh's domestic political scenario

en.prothomalo.com

India must understand what the people of Bangladesh want

M Humayun Kabir, diplomat and former ambassador of Bangladesh, is now the president of Bangladesh Enterprise Institute (BEI). In an interview with Prothom Alo's Sohrab Hassan, he talks about the tensions prevailing in Bangladesh-India relations in the wake of the Awami League government's exit following the 5 August student-people's uprising.

Prothom Alo: It has been three and a half months since the interim government came to the helm. Where do relations between Bangladesh and India stand?

M Humayun Kabir: I feel the complications are growing. The relations between the two countries are multidimensional and diverse. The economic activities are more or less one-sided at the moment. We are importing power and diesel. Rice, onions and potatoes are coming in from India. But no commodities are being exported from Bangladesh.

As neighboring countries, the relations between the two are political, diplomatic and commercial. We have long standing cultural ties too. Many Bangladeshi students and job aspirants go to Delhi to get their visas to travel to a third country. Over the past 15 years India issued visas easily. Since August this has become very restricted. Easing the visa process could be a first step for India to display its goodwill.

Prothom Alo: Why have the tensions between the two countries emerged?

M Humayun Kabir: The tensions between the two countries have emerged because India has not been able to accept the reality of Bangladesh's domestic political scenario after 5 August. I feel that both sides must come forward to resolve the problem. Bangladesh must be alert so that the situation does not get out of hand. The problems between the two countries have to be resolved diplomatically. Decisions must be taken on the basis of reality and need. Agitation must not be created in the public sphere.

Prothom Alo : Certain recent events have caused the situation to deteriorate. For example, during the demonstrations in front of Bangladesh's deputy high commission in Kolkata, BJP supporters set fire to Bangladesh's flag ...

M Humayun Kabir: This is an alarming incident. Firstly, the host country has the responsibility to protect the diplomat mission of any country as well as its staff. Bangladesh's foreign ministry has protested against the incident and demanded the safety of its diplomats be ensured. We hope India does what is needed in this regard. As neighbours, we cannot ignore each other. We need India and India needs Bangladesh.

The problem is that India's policymakers have not been able to accept the huge political change in Bangladesh. They had thought that keeping up relations with one party in Bangladesh would render bilateral relations sustainable.

Prothom Alo: News of India's national flag being desecrated in Bangladesh has appeared on social media and in the Indian press. They have reason to be angered by this ...

M Humayun Kabir: This is totally unwarranted. All sides must behave sensitively. No one should do anything that can increase social unrest and mistrust.

Prothom Alo : Do you feel that there is any shortcoming on the part of Bangladesh in its efforts to increase understanding with India?

M Humayun Kabir: I won't say there is any shortcoming from our side. After the change in the political scenario, chief adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus delivered a clear message about taking bilateral relations ahead on the basis of equality and equal standing. He invited Indian journalists to come and see the situation in Bangladesh on ground. And many did come.

While speaking to correspondents of the Indian press, the chief adviser placed emphasis on improving bilateral ties. Bangladesh had made an effort for the chief adviser to meet Indian prime minister Narendra Modi in September during the UN General Assembly. That didn't happen. However, a meeting did take place between India's foreign minister Jaishankar and Bangladesh's foreign ministry adviser Md Touhid Hossain. We have not seen much headway in the diplomatic arena since then. That should have happened.

Prothom Alo: India has concerns about geopolitical matters too. They feel if Bangladesh's relations with Pakistan improve, their geopolitical interests will be affected ...

M Humayun Kabir: I see no reason for India to have any anxiety concerning Bangladesh's relations with Pakistan. It is not right of them to see Bangladesh's relations with Pakistan or any other country in a negative light.

Realistically speaking, Bangladesh will not have multidimensional relations with Pakistan as it has with India. Neither are competitors in the matter of economic relations. I would say this should not be a matter of any excess concern for India.

While FOC is a routine matter, the FOC with India this time holds different significance. This meeting is very important in bringing stability to relations between the two countries in the prevailing circumstances.

Prothom Alo : There is anti-India talk in Bangladesh too...

M Humayun Kabir: The Bangladesh government does not spread any anti-Indian propaganda. Certain quarters may do so. I would say, the government and the mainstream political parties have displayed responsible behaviour. But it is different in India. They must stop the anti-Bangladesh campaign spearheaded there by the government, the media and on social media. That is the way to improve relations.

I feel that is the way to make things normal. Bangladesh will meet India half way if India makes a positive move. It has done so in the past. The non-government think-tanks can play a role in this regard too.

Prothom Alo : So where does the problem lie?

M Humayun Kabir: The problem is that India's policymakers have not been able to accept the huge political change in Bangladesh. They had thought that keeping up relations with one party in Bangladesh would render bilateral relations sustainable. The people here have not been too pleased with their interference in Bangladesh's domestic affairs. Everyone is well aware of how India's foreign secretary Sujata Singh influenced the elections in Bangladesh in 2014. We saw a repetition of this in the 2018 and 2024 elections too.

India must understand what the people of Bangladesh want. The people here were infuriated with the Bangladesh government as they had not been able to vote in three consecutive elections. Those in power did not tolerate any opposition whatsoever. It was not only political leaders and activists who were repressed, but the common people too. That was what led to the August student-people's uprising. In no way can this be linked to bilateral relations with India.

Prothom Alo: What is the way out of this stagnant state?

M Humayun Kabir: The solution to these bilateral relations must be approached in the light of reality. The people of both countries will benefit from this.

Bangladesh's tourists cannot visit India as they have stopped issuing visas. Patients can't go there like before for medical treatment. The people of Bangladesh are being affected and India is being economically affected too, with no tourists or patients going there from Bangladesh.

Prothom Alo : Talks between the two countries are scheduled to be held on 10 December at a foreign secretary level. Bangladesh is hopeful about this meeting, as has been reflected in the statement of the foreign adviser. The Indian foreign ministry's spokesperson, in the meantime, has said the time and date has not been fixed yet. It will be announced once this is fixed.

M Humayun Kabir: A proposal has been sent to Delhi for the foreign secretary level meeting (Foreign Office Consultant - FOC) to be held on 10 December in Dhaka. Sources in Delhi say that they will respond once the day and the time is fixed. Keeping mutual respect intact, now a space for trust must be created. That is why I feel that it is important for this meeting to be held.

There is no alternative to talks to resolve any problems between the two countries. If there are any misunderstandings, those must be resolved through talks. If talks are held, then the matter of visas for Bangladeshis will be resolved too. If the communication between the people of the two countries increases, trade will increase too. While FOC is a routine matter, the FOC with India this time holds different significance. This meeting is very important in bringing stability to relations between the two countries in the prevailing circumstances.

Prothom Alo : India diplomats joined the recent Bay of Bengal Conversation too. Did you feel there was any sign of them accepting the new reality in Bangladesh?

M Humayun Kabir: Certain issues were raised, but not all. There should be more such discussions.

Prothom Alo : Will the Teesta water sharing issue, renewing the Gangers water sharing treaty, border killings and other pending issues between the two countries be put on the back burner?

M Humayun Kabir: These matters may be raised if bilateral talks are held. But at the moment it is important to iron out the tensions between the two countries, that is, to restore stability to bilateral ties.

Prothom Alo : India is expressing its concern, claiming that the minorities are being repressed in Bangladesh. India's foreign minister Jaishankar even made a statement in Lok Sabha to this end. How do you see this?

M Humayun Kabir: He may have made this statement to calm the unrest in India's domestic political arena. At the same time he also clarified their own stand. As for India monitoring the state of minorities in Bangladesh, everyone should take a look at themselves first. Here too we need to take necessary measures to ensure that the safety of the minorities is not disrupted. The problem is that the minority problem in Bangladesh is being over exaggerated by the India at an official and unofficial level.

Prothom Alo : But minorities did come under attack in Bangladesh after the 5 August changes came about.

M Humayun Kabir: I am not denying that certain incidents took place. But the response of the government and the people must be taken into account. I will mention three points here. There was no government for three days after 5 August. After the government took over on 8 August, the law and order situation improved rapidly. The political parties, student leadership and the public, alongside the government, came forward to protect the minorities.

Secondly, during the Durga Puja festivities, the government took up a stern stance to ensure peace. Political parties, student organisation and civil society kept vigil. And so there were no untoward incidents.

The third point is, when leader of the Sammilita Sanatani Jagoran Mancha, Chinmoy Krishna Das, was not granted bail, his followers created a chaotic situation. A lawyer was killed. The government took extreme cautionary measures and so the situation remained calm and is still so. It cannot be said that the government fell short in any way to ensure the safety of the minorities.

Prothom Alo: So what is the solution?

M Humayun Kabir: The solution is for India to take necessary measures in keeping with Bangladesh's political reality. The problem is they still cannot accept this reality. I have spoken to several Indian diplomats after 5 August. They expressed their surprise at what had happened in Bangladesh. Several newspapers and television channels also asked for my views. I told them, this was a spontaneous movement by the students, and people from all walks of life supported this. Their perception that Pakistan's ISI, China and the US were behind this, is baseless.

A telephone call from the chief adviser led to the return of over 50 Bangladeshi expatriates detained in UAE. Our labour market had been closed in Malaysia. At the behest of the chief adviser, that has reopened.

Prothom Alo: What role can a third country play in keeping Bangladesh and India's relations normal? We saw when Awami League was in power, US played a role in this matter.

M Humayun Kabir: After the change in Bangladesh's political scenario, the US assistant secretary of state Donald Lu came to Bangladesh via Delhi. After leaving Dhaka, he went to Delhi again. While no side made any official statement in this regard, we feel that talks were held on matters of shared interest. The matter would become much easier if India accepted the reality in Bangladesh. India has some basis for its concern, but then again, some of its concerns are baseless. All this can be sorted out through dialogue. There is no alternative to dialogue to assuage our concerns and the concerns of India.

Prothom Alo : There was a historical response from the outside world to the change in Bangladesh's political scenario. Greetings poured in as the government led by Dr Muhammad Yunus was formed. But now three and a half months have passed and there have not been any significant developments in the area of foreign policy.

M Humayun Kabir: The European Union, United States, China, Japan and other big powers of the world displayed a positive response. In particular, the image generated by Dr Muhammad Yunus during the UN General Assembly, was extremely inspiring. We cannot say that we did not gain anything from this. A telephone call from the chief adviser led to the return of over 50 Bangladeshi expatriates detained in the United Arab Emirates. Our labour market had been closed in Malaysia. At the behest of the chief adviser, that has reopened.

Prothom Alo : But we see a negative situation in the area of investments. Foreign investment isn't coming in as expected.

M Humayun Kabir: Political stability is required in the country for investment. We have not been able to create that circumstance as yet. Everything is topsy-turvy.

All countries want returns on their investment. Hopefully the political situation will become normal. The government has proposed many reforms. If these can be finalised and the country proceeds towards the election, we can hope for political stability.

Prothom Alo : Thank you.

M Humayun Kabir: Thank you too.​

 

[Bilal9]

I think there definitely is effort on the Bangladesh side to resolve issues and mutual distrust given the current state of affairs between both countries, but one cannot say the same exists from the Indian side.

Their govt. leaning media (which is 95% of total) is intent on untruths, lies and harsh uncouth accusations (without fact-checking I might add) which is unprecedented. One only has to watch some of their virulent media hosts to see what I am talking about. Their efforts at whipping up the fervor of Bangladesh-hate is rather successful.

In short one can say (per Mahmudur Rahman, one of my well-spoken level-headed journalists and role models from Bangladesh), that the ouster of Hasina was seen as the biggest failure of Indian foreign policy in fifty or so years. This was hard for Indians (especially BJP supremos) to accept.

Instead of accepting reality and questioning BJP on why this happened and how it stands, Indian politicians in general have been intent on,
a) threats of invading Bangladesh, and also
b) threats of lopping off Bangladesh territory to create Hindu majority countries, based on flimsy pretexts of Hindu oppression in Bangladesh (playing "Hindu" card).

We know where these threats will go, which is nowhere.

What has happened has happened and Indians must accept the failure of their foreign policy. One cannot reverse this now.

I'd ask Indian politicians of major political parties to consider what is practical and feasible for the future and where mutual prosperity lies in the relation of both countries.

This is what we should focus on, instead of blind hate and baseless accusations coming from India.

 

[Krishna with Flute]

I think there definitely is effort on the Bangladesh side to resolve issues and mutual distrust given the current state of affairs between both countries, but one cannot say the same exists from the Indian side.

Their govt. leaning media (which is 95% of total) is intent on untruths, lies and harsh uncouth accusations (without fact-checking I might add) which is unprecedented. One only has to watch some of their virulent media hosts to see what I am talking about. Their efforts at whipping up the fervor of Bangladesh-hate is rather successful.

In short one can say (per Mahmudur Rahman, one of my well-spoken level-headed journalists and role models from Bangladesh), that the ouster of Hasina was seen as the biggest failure of Indian foreign policy in fifty or so years. This was hard for Indians (especially BJP supremos) to accept.

Instead of accepting reality and questioning BJP on why this happened and how it stands, Indian politicians in general have been intent on,
a) threats of invading Bangladesh, and also
b) threats of lopping off Bangladesh territory to create Hindu majority countries, based on flimsy pretexts of Hindu oppression in Bangladesh (playing "Hindu" card).

We know where these threats will go, which is nowhere.

What has happened has happened and Indians must accept the failure of their foreign policy. One cannot reverse this now.

I'd ask Indian politicians of major political parties to consider what is practical and feasible for the future and where mutual prosperity lies in the relation of both countries.

This is what we should focus on, instead of blind hate and baseless accusations coming from India.

Hindus are reduced to 7% from around 30%. Their temple are being burnt, their women are raped, and you say that it is false. You yourself said earlier that Now Chanting of Jai Shri Ram shall be banned in BD. Here, you are lying to mislead the people by saying that Hindus are BD citizens, and all these stories of Hindu Atrocities are fake.

 

[Vsdoc]

Hindus are reduced to 7% from around 30%. Their temple are being burnt, their women are raped, and you say that it is false. You yourself said earlier that Now Chanting of Jai Shri Ram shall be banned in BD. Here, you are lying to mislead the people by saying that Hindus are BD citizens, and all these stories of Hindu Atrocities are fake.

Taqiya

 

[Krishna with Flute]

Taqiya

YEs, but Takia is also used in some places. Taqiyya is also used.

 

[Vsdoc]

YEs, but Takia is also used in some places. Taqiyya is also used.

Only, in their case, sadly for them, its going to be permanent Taqiya.

Coz they can keep dreaming about tiding over a weak phase till they are less vulnerable.

We literally have our foot on their collective neck.

And they know it. Hence the squirming about how peaceful and secular they truly are.

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh wants friendly, normal relations with India

Foreign adviser says he hopes that scheduled Foreign Office Consultations with India will take place

www.thedailystar.net

Bangladesh wants friendly, normal relations with India
Says foreign adviser, hopes scheduled Foreign Office Consultations with India will take place

Photo: AFP

Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain today said Bangladesh wants to see a "normal and friendly" relationship protecting mutual interests with India.

He also said he sees West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's remarks on Bangladesh "as usual that goes with her persona".

Mamata on Sunday urged the central government of India to seek the deployment of UN peacekeeping forces in Bangladesh amid alleged attacks on Hindus, according to the Indian media.

While responding to a question at a media briefing, Adviser Touhid said politicians often make such remarks on various topics, but it was not a "right move" for Mamata. "I would like to see this as Mamata-like remarks. I don't understand why she has made such remarks."

Earlier, the adviser briefed the foreign diplomats stationed in Dhaka at state guest house Padma about the allegations of attacks on religious minorities. He explained the government's position and described the situation on the grounds.

"We are not saying that there are no such incidents of attacks on minorities, but those are isolated and happen more or less during all regimes," Touhid said.

The government conveyed to the diplomats that religious harmony is part of the society and the government is firmly determined to maintain it.

But a section of the media, especially in India, is engaged in propaganda on the issue, the adviser said. He said there are efforts domestically and globally to give an impression that the country is heading towards a deteriorated situation.

"We should not forget that there is a global campaign (against the government) by a certain group," he said, adding that the government will handle it with an iron hand if anyone tries to create chaos in the country.

Responding to a question, he said they did not say anything specific about India, but the media reports came up. A representative of the Indian High Commission in Dhaka was also present at the briefing.

Responding to a question, Touhid said they shared with the diplomats under what circumstances former ISKCON leader Chandan Kumar Dhar, alias Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, was arrested. He is now in jail.

He said the government will not allow any communal violence in the country and it sees all its citizens equally.

"We did not say that there is no problem in the country. There are issues, and we're trying to fix them," the adviser said, adding that they have successfully addressed issues in many areas.

Touhid acknowledged that there has been a change in the dynamics of bilateral relations with India since the August 5 political changeover.

Asked whether the scheduled Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) with India will be held this month, he said, "I think so."​

 

[Bilal9]

Hindus are reduced to 7% from around 30%. Their temple are being burnt, their women are raped, and you say that it is false. You yourself said earlier that Now Chanting of Jai Shri Ram shall be banned in BD. Here, you are lying to mislead the people by saying that Hindus are BD citizens, and all these stories of Hindu Atrocities are fake.

Educated Hindus get better opportunities in India (or other countries) and there is no stopping them from leaving for India if they wish. This will continue. That is exactly the reason. No one is torturing them.

This is not a fault of the Bangladeshi Govt. or the majority Muslims that Hindus leave of their own free will,

There may be some stray incidents of Hindu homes being attacked after Aug 5 revolution and regime change (mainly by AL people to create bad blood and blame the uprising folks), but they are all connected to political animosity (if that), not religion. Muslim AL people were attacked en masse, now only if they're Hindu it becomes a big deal.

Hindu homes were also burnt during AL rule - but there was no peep heard from India at that time. Kind of suspicious - one would think.

 

[Bilal9]

Only, in their case, sadly for them, its going to be permanent Taqiya.

Coz they can keep dreaming about tiding over a weak phase till they are less vulnerable.

We literally have our foot on their collective neck.

And they know it. Hence the squirming about how peaceful and secular they truly are.

Keep on daydreaming.

 

[Krishna with Flute]

Bangladesh wants friendly, normal relations with India

Foreign adviser says he hopes that scheduled Foreign Office Consultations with India will take place

www.thedailystar.net

Bangladesh wants friendly, normal relations with India
Says foreign adviser, hopes scheduled Foreign Office Consultations with India will take place

View attachment 11288
Photo: AFP

Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain today said Bangladesh wants to see a "normal and friendly" relationship protecting mutual interests with India.

He also said he sees West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's remarks on Bangladesh "as usual that goes with her persona".

Mamata on Sunday urged the central government of India to seek the deployment of UN peacekeeping forces in Bangladesh amid alleged attacks on Hindus, according to the Indian media.

While responding to a question at a media briefing, Adviser Touhid said politicians often make such remarks on various topics, but it was not a "right move" for Mamata. "I would like to see this as Mamata-like remarks. I don't understand why she has made such remarks."

Earlier, the adviser briefed the foreign diplomats stationed in Dhaka at state guest house Padma about the allegations of attacks on religious minorities. He explained the government's position and described the situation on the grounds.

"We are not saying that there are no such incidents of attacks on minorities, but those are isolated and happen more or less during all regimes," Touhid said.

The government conveyed to the diplomats that religious harmony is part of the society and the government is firmly determined to maintain it.

But a section of the media, especially in India, is engaged in propaganda on the issue, the adviser said. He said there are efforts domestically and globally to give an impression that the country is heading towards a deteriorated situation.

"We should not forget that there is a global campaign (against the government) by a certain group," he said, adding that the government will handle it with an iron hand if anyone tries to create chaos in the country.

Responding to a question, he said they did not say anything specific about India, but the media reports came up. A representative of the Indian High Commission in Dhaka was also present at the briefing.

Responding to a question, Touhid said they shared with the diplomats under what circumstances former ISKCON leader Chandan Kumar Dhar, alias Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, was arrested. He is now in jail.

He said the government will not allow any communal violence in the country and it sees all its citizens equally.

"We did not say that there is no problem in the country. There are issues, and we're trying to fix them," the adviser said, adding that they have successfully addressed issues in many areas.

Touhid acknowledged that there has been a change in the dynamics of bilateral relations with India since the August 5 political changeover.

Asked whether the scheduled Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) with India will be held this month, he said, "I think so."​

That is a good statement but let us see whether that reflects into their behavior. If oppression of Hindus does not stop, what he says is just a lip service.

 

[Krishna with Flute]

Only, in their case, sadly for them, its going to be permanent Taqiya.

Coz they can keep dreaming about tiding over a weak phase till they are less vulnerable.

We literally have our foot on their collective neck.

And they know it. Hence the squirming about how peaceful and secular they truly are.

They are worse than even Arab Muslims. We have seen this since 1947 and even before that. We saw that in Kashmir as well.

 

[Krishna with Flute]

Only, in their case, sadly for them, its going to be permanent Taqiya.

Coz they can keep dreaming about tiding over a weak phase till they are less vulnerable.

We literally have our foot on their collective neck.

And they know it. Hence the squirming about how peaceful and secular they truly are.

We have all the power but our P. M. Is a Hi**da. Today, we miss some leader like Indira Gandhi. Today, all remember Indira Gandhi while our Co**rd P. M. Sees Hindus being butchered by these radicals with world's 4th Largest Army. Leadership is very important.

 

[Vsdoc]

We have all the power but our P. M. Is a Hi**da. Today, we miss some leader like Indira Gandhi. Today, all remember Indira Gandhi while our Co**rd P. M. Sees Hindus being butchered by these radicals with world's 4th Largest Army. Leadership is very important.

I am a great respecter and lover of Indira ji too.

Biggest balls of any PM.

 

[Vsdoc]

They are worse than even Arab Muslims. We have seen this since 1947 and even before that. We saw that in Kashmir as well.

Arabs have always been historically through the ages quite sweet with Indian civilization.

They only come to loot. Not impose.

That they did elsewhere.

 

[Vsdoc]

Keep on daydreaming.

About Bangladesh?

Even your food is not tasty man. I have bong friends. I grew up in Bihar. Cannot explain what happened to the shared culinary heritage with the split.

 

[Krishna with Flute]

Arabs have always been historically through the ages quite sweet with Indian civilization.

They only come to loot. Not impose.

That they did elsewhere.

Yes, but our C grade Arabs are in race to associate their identity with Arabs and wants to do more than what Arabs do. If they will become strong, they will destroy all temples and do lot more oppression than what Arabs, Afghans or Mongols did.

 

[Saif]

Indian media, relations between Bangladesh and India

SINCE the fall of the Awami League regime on August 5 amid a student-led mass uprising, there has been a noticeable shift in India-Bangladesh relations. Historically regarded as each other’s closest allies, the two countries share significant geographic and cultural ties. However, tensions have...

www.newagebd.net

Indian media, relations between Bangladesh and India
05 December, 2024, 00:00

India’s media needs to understand the new reality shaping Bangladesh as it moves forward. Failing to accept this reality or continuing efforts to destabilise the situation will not benefit anyone, writes Mahtab Uddin Chowdhury

SINCE the fall of the Awami League regime on August 5 amid a student-led mass uprising, there has been a noticeable shift in India-Bangladesh relations. Historically regarded as each other’s closest allies, the two countries share significant geographic and cultural ties. However, tensions have occasionally surfaced, with a considerable portion of the Bangladeshi population perceiving India as the more advantaged party in the bilateral relationship. This perception gained traction during the 15-year rule of the Awami League, a period marked by allegations that India received a disproportionate share of benefits from bilateral agreements. Critics have suggested that this dominance was part of a strategy to maintain AL’s hold on power, even amidst three consecutive sham elections.

In the current reality shaped by the fall of Sheikh Hasina, there is growing anticipation among the Bangladeshi people for more equitable and mutually beneficial bilateral relations with India. The focus has shifted towards fostering a balanced partnership that departs from past grievances. However, this transition has brought with it significant criticism of India’s perceived stance as a supporter of Sheikh Hasina during her political decline.

This discontent intensified when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted a congratulatory message to Dr Yunus upon his assumption of office as Bangladesh’s chief adviser while simultaneously calling for the safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh. This gesture, though diplomatically framed, sparked heated reactions from various quarters within Bangladesh, as it was seen as an overt intervention in the country’s internal affairs.

The situation has been further exacerbated by Indian media’s extensive coverage of Bangladesh’s current political and social instability, often framing it as a crisis centred around attacks on minority groups, particularly Hindus. These reports frequently highlight alleged instances of torture, killings, and discriminatory treatment of minorities but are criticised for lacking comprehensive data to substantiate such claims. This narrative appears to echo the stance promoted by the Awami League, which often positioned itself as the sole guardian of minority safety in Bangladesh. By perpetuating these assumptions without sufficient evidence, Indian media risks fuelling tensions and reinforcing a narrative that minorities in Bangladesh are not safe in this current situation. This approach not only overlooks the complexities of the current situation but also undermines the potential for a constructive and forward-looking relationship between the two nations.

On the other hand, the reality presents a starkly different picture. While it is undeniable that some attacks on minorities have occurred, there is little concrete evidence to establish the motives behind these incidents conclusively. A closer examination of most of these cases often reveals that the victims were directly connected to Awami League politics, with many holding positions within the party’s committees.

This connection complicates the narrative put forth by some media outlets. While any act of violence — regardless of motive — is unequivocally unacceptable and deserving of strong condemnation, the assumption that these attacks were solely motivated by the victims’ status as minorities fails to account for critical contextual factors.

Instead, evidence suggests that these individuals were targeted not because of their religious or ethnic identities but due to their affiliations or roles within the AL. This distinction does not diminish the seriousness of the attacks but highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of the circumstances. Addressing such incidents requires focusing on both ensuring justice for the victims and avoiding sweeping generalisations that could exacerbate communal tensions or serve political agendas.

Most recently, the arrest of a former ISKCON leader, Chinmoy Krishna Das, has further intensified the situation. According to government spokesperson Asif Mahmud, Das was arrested on charges of sedition, not as a community or religious leader. However, Indian media once again framed this as an anti-minority action by the Bangladeshi government, fuelling tensions.

The situation escalated when protests erupted outside the Chattogram court premises, resulting in the tragic killing of a lawyer by supporters of the Hindu monk on November 26. While fears of nationwide unrest began to surface, the collective response from political parties, religious groups, and civil society showcased a remarkable sense of maturity and unity, successfully de-escalating tensions.

Despite this, Indian media persisted in its efforts to misrepresent the incidents, spreading misinformation and attempting to construct narratives detached from the realities on the ground. The repercussions of this disinformation campaign have already manifested in troubling ways. For instance, members of the Hindu Sangharsh Samity in Agartala attacked the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in India’s Tripura, highlighting the real-world implications of such inflammatory reporting.

Additionally, growing tensions in border areas have disrupted the transfer of import-export goods, posing a direct threat to the economies of both nations. This situation underscores the urgent need for responsible reporting and diplomatic efforts to prevent misinformation from derailing bilateral relations and fuelling unnecessary conflict.

Whatever Indian media has been proposing or portraying is a pure reflection of illicit journalism, bringing no benefit to either country. Having a countering mechanism from Bangladesh to address this disinformation is imperative and requires a comprehensive approach involving the government, media houses, CSOs, student alliances, and political parties.

More importantly, India’s media needs to understand the new reality shaping Bangladesh as it moves forward. Failing to accept this reality or continuing efforts to destabilise the situation will not benefit even the minorities living in Bangladesh. Meanwhile, the reality of Indian Muslims remains far below expectations, a fact that Indian media often overlooks.

Mahtab Uddin Chowdhury is an independent researcher specialising in South Asian politics, local governance and media freedom.​

 

[Bilal9]

Yes, but our C grade Arabs are in race to associate their identity with Arabs and wants to do more than what Arabs do. If they will become strong, they will destroy all temples and do lot more oppression than what Arabs, Afghans or Mongols did.

Which "C" grade Arabs are your referring to?

Certainly not Bangladeshis.

Non Awami Leaguers (even people of Jamaat) stayed up nights to keep watch over hundreds of Mandirs in Bangladesh so they don't get vandalized by Awami Leaguers intent on causing trouble after August 5. This is well documented.

I'd like to ask how many RSSers, Shivsena and VHP members protected Masjids in India.

Please provide proof of actual Muslim "oppression" on Hindus - not use this forum for baseless propaganda.

We can exchange opinion, but let's not engage in baseless propaganda.

If Bangladeshis as a group like Arab culture, no one has any right to criticize it.

Ditto as well if Bangladeshis like Bengali Buddhist culture (which is their own, derived from the Charyapadas which talks about Buddhist philosophy). See below for the 8th century Pali manuscript.

Atisa Dipankara (major 9th century figure in Buddhism) was a Bengali and was born near Dhaka at Vikrampur in the 9th century. His writings are known to all Buddhists. Still a major religious figure in Bangladesh.

Atiśa - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

You consider yourself a soldier of Hindutva, but your actual knowledge about the Vedas, Ramayana, Bhajrayana Buddhism are rather limited. Please inform yourself before you post. To be a murkh person is not a good thing.

I thought you'd educate us about these Sanskrit, Prakrit and Pali treatises, that would be helpful.

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh-India secretary-level talks on Dec 9 or 10: Touhid

Foreign adviser Md Touhid Hosain on Wednesday said the scheduled Foreign Secretary-level Foreign Office Consultation (FOC) between Bangladesh and India will take place in Dhaka on 9 or 10 December. "It is very clear that we want a good relationship (with India)," he told reporters at the...

en.prothomalo.com

Bangladesh-India secretary-level talks on Dec 9 or 10: Touhid
BSS
Published: 04 Dec 2024, 20: 25

Foreign adviser Md. Touhid Hossain at a media briefing at the foreign ministry on 1 October 2024File photo

Foreign adviser Md Touhid Hosain on Wednesday said the scheduled Foreign Secretary-level Foreign Office Consultation (FOC) between Bangladesh and India will take place in Dhaka on 9 or 10 December.

"It is very clear that we want a good relationship (with India)," he told reporters at the foreign ministry on Wednesday afternoon.

However, the foreign adviser emphasized that relations between Bangladesh and India must be built on a reciprocal basis. "Both sides need to want that and should work for it," he added.

Touhid mentioned that while the FOC is scheduled for 10 December, it might be held a day earlier, on 9 December.

During the high-level consultation, Bangladesh foreign secretary Md Jashim Uddin and Indian foreign secretary Vikram Misri will lead their respective delegations.

The discussions are expected to cover a range of bilateral issues, including the potential extradition of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, currently in India, and visa-related matters.

Ousted Sheikh Hasina, who fled Dhaka on 5 August and has been residing in India since then, is facing trial in Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal for alleged involvement in mass killings during the July-August uprising.

At the foreign ministry's weekly briefing on 21 November, Director General of the Public Diplomacy Wing Toufique Hasan confirmed that an inter-ministerial meeting had already been held to coordinate preparations for the upcoming talks.​

 

[Krishna with Flute]

I'd like to ask how many RSSers, Shivsena and VHP members protected Masjids in India.

There is no need to Protect Mosques as they are already protected unlike the BD temples which are vandalized and burned. I have the videos with me people destroying and Burning temples. However, I do not post here. If you want me to post, I can post here. There cannot be any comparison between India and Pakistan/ Bangladesh. Pakistan and BD have finished their minorities while Muslims have increased 7 folds in 7 decades. Had we had skills like you, we too would have got rid of Our radical Minorities. You yourself posted here that now Chanting Jai Shree ram shall be banned in Bangladesh. Here they shout 5 time from mike, and you are comparing BD and India. This is funny.

So far as C grade Arab is concern, all subcontinent Muslims try to be C grade Arabs and copy whatever comes from Arab. Why your name is Bilal? Is Bilal a subcontinent name? Tell me whether Bilal is an Arab name or not? They try to wear cloths like Arabs, they try to behave like Arabs, they try to everything which Arabs do. I do not understand Bengali but I have seen many Pakistani Politicians, Mullahs and Maulanas saying that Pakistanis have Arabian Ancestry.

 

[Saif]

There is no need to Protect Mosques as they are already protected unlike the BD temples which are vandalized and burned.

Was 400 years old Babri Mosque protected?

 

[Krishna with Flute]

There is no need to Protect Mosques as they are already protected unlike the BD temples which are vandalized and burned. I have the videos with me people destroying and Burning temples. However, I do not post here. If you want me to post, I can post here. There cannot be any comparison between India and Pakistan/ Bangladesh. Pakistan and BD have finished their minorities while Muslims have increased 7 folds in 7 decades. Had we had skills like you, we too would have got rid of Our radical Minorities. You yourself posted here that now Chanting Jai Shree ram shall be banned in Bangladesh. Here they shout 5 time from mike, and you are comparing BD and India. This is funny.

Which "C" grade Arabs are your referring to?

Certainly not Bangladeshis.

Non Awami Leaguers (even people of Jamaat) stayed up nights to keep watch over hundreds of Mandirs in Bangladesh so they don't get vandalized by Awami Leaguers intent on causing trouble after August 5. This is well documented.

I'd like to ask how many RSSers, Shivsena and VHP members protected Masjids in India.

Please provide proof of actual Muslim "oppression" on Hindus - not use this forum for baseless propaganda.

We can exchange opinion, but let's not engage in baseless propaganda.

If Bangladeshis as a group like Arab culture, no one has any right to criticize it.

Ditto as well if Bangladeshis like Bengali Buddhist culture (which is their own, derived from the Charyapadas which talks about Buddhist philosophy). See below for the 8th century Pali manuscript.

Atisa Dipankara (major 9th century figure in Buddhism) was a Bengali and was born near Dhaka at Vikrampur in the 9th century. His writings are known to all Buddhists. Still a major religious figure in Bangladesh.

Atiśa - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

You consider yourself a soldier of Hindutva, but your actual knowledge about the Vedas, Ramayana, Bhajrayana Buddhism are rather limited. Please inform yourself before you post. To be a murkh person is not a good thing.

I thought you'd educate us about these Sanskrit, Prakrit and Pali treatises, that would be helpful.

View attachment 11358

You call me Murkha but you are Zahil no. 1. Was BD a country in 9th century? Wat Islam a predominant religion in that part of India which is known as BD today? A geographical part that had such scholars in 9th century (Like what you quote), is today den of radical who are on loose burning temples, killing Hindus and does everything lawless and immoral. Your problem is that you are such a person who post something thinking that it will support your argument, but it exactly counters your narratives. You did same thing in BD textile import disucssion.

 

[Vsdoc]

There is no need to Protect Mosques as they are already protected unlike the BD temples which are vandalized and burned. I have the videos with me people destroying and Burning temples. However, I do not post here. If you want me to post, I can post here. There cannot be any comparison between India and Pakistan/ Bangladesh. Pakistan and BD have finished their minorities while Muslims have increased 7 folds in 7 decades. Had we had skills like you, we too would have got rid of Our radical Minorities. You yourself posted here that now Chanting Jai Shree ram shall be banned in Bangladesh. Here they shout 5 time from mike, and you are comparing BD and India. This is funny.

So far as C grade Arab is concern, all subcontinent Muslims try to be C grade Arabs and copy whatever comes from Arab. Why your name is Bilal? Is Bilal a subcontinent name? Tell me whether Bilal is an Arab name or not? They try to wear cloths like Arabs, they try to behave like Arabs, they try to everything which Arabs do. I do not understand Bengali but I have seen many Pakistani Politicians, Mullahs and Maulanas saying that Pakistanis have Arabian Ancestry.

Well said.

The bit about Bilal was priceless.

 

[Krishna with Flute]

Was 400 years old Babri Mosque protected?

It was not a mosque. It was a structure built by a gay terrorist by destroying our Sacred temple in Memory of his boyfriend. We reclaimed it. There are other 40000 such mosques in India and we are going to reclaim them all. We do not want any symbol of those terrorist Islamist from Arab, Mongolia and Afghanistan in our country.

Unfortunately, we have a coward P. M. in place now. People are losing hope from him. We shall have a true Hindutvavadi Government in place, and we shall teach all those radicals a lesson who have become powerful by illegally getting our money and looted wealth. We shall hang them on Crains or behead them like what Iran, Saudi and other Arabic nations do. We do not need any filth in our country or in neighborhood. All Attrocities on Hindus will brutally be avenged. You can coney this to your radical friend who are busy in Burning temple and killing Hindus.

 

[Saif]

It was not a mosque. It was a structure built by a gay terrorist by destroying our Sacred temple in Memory of his boyfriend. We reclaimed it. There are other 40000 such mosques in India and we are going to reclaim them all. We do not want any symbol of those terrorist Islamist from Arab, Mongolia and Afghanistan in our country.

Unfortunately, we have a coward P. M. in place now. People are losing hope from him. We shall have a true Hindutvavadi Government in place, and we shall teach all those radicals a lesson who have become powerful by illegally getting our money and looted wealth. We shall hang them on Crains or behead them like what Iran, Saudi and other Arabic nations do. We do not need any filth in our country or in neighborhood. All Attrocities on Hindus will brutally be avenged. You can coney this to your radical friend who are busy in Burning temple and killing Hindus.

Yeah, keep shouting. It won't change the truth that you destroyed a 400 years old Babri Mosque.

 

[Krishna with Flute]

Yeah, keep shouting. It won't change the truth that you destroyed a 400 years old Babri Mosque.

You missed other part of post. We are going to destroy 40000 more to remove those symbols of Terrorism.

 

[Saif]

You missed other part of post. We are going to destroy 40000 more.

What else can be expected from a former disgruntled slave of the Mughals?

 

[Krishna with Flute]

What else can be expected from a former disgruntled slave of the Mughals?

Slaves of Mughals changed their religion and their forefathers as well. Today, they try to be more uncivilized and crueler than their forefathers.

 

[Saif]

Slaves of Mughals changed their religion and their forefathers as well. Today, they try to be more uncivilized and crueler than their forefathers.

If all slaves were forced to change their religion by the Mughals there would be no Hindus in today's India.

 

[Saif]

Foreign secretaries meet in Dhaka amid Bangladesh-India tensions

Dhaka-Delhi relations have been under significant strain since the political shift on 5 August, following the student-public uprising in Bangladesh

en.prothomalo.com

Foreign secretaries meet in Dhaka amid Bangladesh-India tensions
Raheed Ejaz
Dhaka
Updated: 05 Dec 2024, 16: 21

Amid the tensions and dip in Bangladesh-India bilateral relations, the pre-scheduled meeting of the foreign secretaries of the two countries will be held in Dhaka next week.

Diplomatic sources in Dhaka and Delhi told Prothom Alo on Wednesday that the meeting between Foreign Secretary Md. Jasim Uddin and Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri is set for 9 December. Earlier, the meeting had been scheduled for 10 December.

When asked about the Dhaka-Delhi Foreign Secretary-level meeting on Wednesday afternoon, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain told newspersons at the ministry that the meeting might be advanced by a day. If not, it will take place on 10 December.

He said, "We want good relations. But they must be reciprocal. We have to work toward that objective.”

Dhaka-Delhi relations have been under significant strain since the political shift on 5 August, following the student-public uprising in Bangladesh. The international community largely welcomed the inevitable decline of Sheikh Hasina’s authoritarian rule.

However, even four months after the change, the neighbouring country has not yet accepted it. On the contrary, bitterness has grown, as India repeatedly raises concerns alleging minority oppression.

Recently, several Hindutva organisations carried out an unprecedented attack on the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala, alleging minority oppression.

Additionally, protests have taken place near Bangladesh missions in Kolkata and Mumbai. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has already summoned the Indian High Commission in Dhaka to protest the attack on the Bangladesh mission, and consular activities, including visa services, have been suspended at the mission. Protests are continuing in and outside Dhaka in response to the attack. As a result, tensions have intensified between the two South Asian neighbours.

A responsible government official told Prothom Alo that the tension that has developed between the two countries since August is not only new but also rare since independence.

This is the first time in five years that an Indian High Commissioner has been summoned by Dhaka. Bangladesh has also sent counter-protests in response to statements from the Indian Ministry of Foreign Affairs several times during this period. Amid this, the meeting of the foreign secretaries of the two countries is set to take place.

This will be the first high-level meeting between Bangladesh and India in Dhaka since the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government.

However, in September, on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly session in New York, Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain held discussions with Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar. At that time, Touhid Hossain proposed organising a meeting of the foreign secretaries to benefit the relations between the two countries.

When asked, Foreign Secretary Md Jasim Uddin told Prothom Alo that although the meeting of the foreign secretaries of the two countries is part of routine diplomatic activities, this time it will be held at a critical juncture in history.

As a result, the planned meeting in Dhaka holds special significance compared to previous ones.

The meeting could play an important role in alleviating the ongoing uneasiness between the two countries. Furthermore, its continuation will create an environment conducive to initiating discussions in various sectors between the two nations.

Since the political change on 5 August and the assumption of office by the interim government on 8 August, the discomfort and tension in the relations between Dhaka and Delhi have become increasingly visible. After Muhammad Yunus was sworn in as the head of the interim government, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed him with a post on X (formerly Twitter).

In that post, Modi emphasised advancing bilateral relations and the security of minorities in Bangladesh. Subsequently, Dr Yunus phoned Modi regarding the relations between the two countries.

During the phone call, Modi reiterated his concerns about the situation of minorities. As time went on, public statements, comments, and social media posts by leaders from both countries made it clear that the "golden chapter of relations" between the two neighbours had been government-centric.

Following the fall of the Awami League government on 5 August, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India, where she has remained in Delhi since then.

Bangladesh has issued several statements clearly stating that her comments from India are hindering efforts to normalise relations. However, Delhi has yet to officially inform Dhaka about Sheikh Hasina’s stay in India.

In this context, the meeting between Jaishankar and Touhid Hossain, mediated by the United States, took place in New York. During that period, protests by some American citizens of Indian origin, accusing Bangladesh of minority oppression, occurred in New York.

While statements and remarks against India from Bangladesh’s leadership and social spheres began to subside, the opposite has been happening in India.

In particular, social media and several mainstream media outlets in India have capitalised on the issue of minorities, spreading misinformation and false narratives about Bangladesh.

The arrest of the religious leader Chinmoy Krishna Das and the speculation about a potential ban on ISKCON have further complicated the situation.

Meanwhile, Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar addressed the Lok Sabha regarding the issues surrounding Chinmoy Krishna Das and ISKCON.

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi took to her X handle, writing, "I appeal to the central government to intervene in this matter and strongly raise the issue of ensuring the security of minorities with the Bangladesh government."

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also spoke in the assembly, demanding the deployment of UN peacekeepers in Bangladesh.

However, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor opposed her statement, saying that Mamata had no understanding of how the UN deploys peacekeepers in a country.

Three meetings despite tensions

Amid the tensions in Dhaka-Delhi relations, the BGB-BSF Director General level meeting has been postponed for the past four months. The meeting, which was scheduled to be held in Delhi from 18 to 20 November, was postponed after Dhaka requested a delay in late October.

However, despite the tensions, three official-level meetings took place between the two countries in October and November. These meetings focused on water sharing, land borders, and land ports.

In October, members of the Joint River Commission (JRC) held a technical meeting in Dhaka to discuss the flow of the Ganges waters. In November, the Land Border Security Committee met in Kolkata, and the Joint Working Group (JWG) on land ports held a meeting in Delhi.

According to diplomatic sources, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri will arrive in Dhaka on a special Indian Air Force flight on the morning of 9 December. He will first hold a formal meeting with Foreign Secretary Md Jasim Uddin.

After lunch, the Indian Foreign Secretary will pay a courtesy call on Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain, followed by a courtesy call on Dr Muhammad Yunus, the Chief Adviser to the Interim Government. Vikram Misri will return to Delhi later that afternoon.

US mediation to normalise relations

Since the political change in August, the United States has been actively working to normalise Dhaka-Delhi relations. The US State Department has held discussions on this matter at various levels in both Delhi and Washington.

Prior to his visit to Dhaka last September, US Assistant Secretary of State for Central and South Asian Affairs Donald Lu visited Delhi. After his trip to Dhaka, he made a one-day stopover in Delhi before heading to Washington.

Following his discussions with Bangladeshi officials in Dhaka, he also met with Indian Foreign Minister Vikram Misri in Delhi. The main focus of their discussions was the improvement of Dhaka-Delhi relations and the stability of South Asia.

Inquiries in Washington last Saturday revealed that the US State Department remains actively engaged in ensuring that Bangladesh-India relations move in a positive direction. US State Department officials are in regular contact with Bangladeshi officials to stay informed about developments in Bangladesh.

Asked, research organisation Bangladesh Enterprise Institute (BEI) president and former ambassador of Bangladesh to the US M Humayun Kabir told Prothom Alo that it is essential to establish a relation based on respect and trust for the sake of both the countries.

He remarked that the meeting of the two foreign secretaries was an appropriate forum for this.

M Humayun Kabir further said that it is necessary to hold discussions between the two countries to resolve issues. This meeting is very important to normalise the ongoing abnormal situation existing in the bilateral relations of the two countries.

Diplomatic analysts say the people of Bangladesh consider the kind of bilateral relation that existed in the last 15 years as unilateral. Discussion on this has increased in the public sphere. That is why India should focus on taking the relations ahead, realising the expectation of the people of Bangladesh in the context of changed circumstances.

They say there is a scope to normalise the relation dispelling the lack of mutual understanding in the foreign secretary level meeting.

*The report, originally published in the print and online edition of Prothom Alo, has been rewritten in English by Farjana Liakat​

 

[Krishna with Flute]

If all slaves were forced to change their religion by the Mughals there would be no Hindus in today's India.

That did not happen because all were not coward who surrendered against the swords of Mughals. Brave people either fought or preferred to die.

 

[Sharma Ji]

That did not happen because all were not coward who surrendered against the swords of Mughals. Brave people either fought or preferred to die.

That's right brother, we still here, stronger and more powerful than ever before !

The Rashtra is rising, we will

MAKE INDIA DHARMI AGAIN

MIDA !

but I'm no munafiq/hypocrite.. let BD do as it pleases. Their dharmis are NOT OUR CONCERN... they'll migrate here en masse and keep voting jihadidi Momota, can't trust these Bongs..

we want MIDA

not secularism ka KIDA

 

[Saif]

That did not happen because all were not coward who surrendered against the swords of Mughals. Brave people either fought or preferred to die.

Yeah, if the Mughals wanted to convert they could have done it in their 1000 years rule over India. Your few dozens brave hearts could have escaped but not the millions of cowards. The majority of Indians were cowards......always subjected to rules of foreign powers.

 

[Bilal9]

There is no need to Protect Mosques as they are already protected unlike the BD temples which are vandalized and burned. I have the videos with me people destroying and Burning temples. However, I do not post here. If you want me to post, I can post here. There cannot be any comparison between India and Pakistan/ Bangladesh. Pakistan and BD have finished their minorities while Muslims have increased 7 folds in 7 decades. Had we had skills like you, we too would have got rid of Our radical Minorities. You yourself posted here that now Chanting Jai Shree ram shall be banned in Bangladesh. Here they shout 5 time from mike, and you are comparing BD and India. This is funny.

So far as C grade Arab is concern, all subcontinent Muslims try to be C grade Arabs and copy whatever comes from Arab. Why your name is Bilal? Is Bilal a subcontinent name? Tell me whether Bilal is an Arab name or not? They try to wear cloths like Arabs, they try to behave like Arabs, they try to everything which Arabs do. I do not understand Bengali but I have seen many Pakistani Politicians, Mullahs and Maulanas saying that Pakistanis have Arabian Ancestry.

All those videos you have were fact-checked, found to be unrelated or from the past and generally fraudulent.

I hope the BJP and VHP give up these attempts of false propaganda and trying to create unrest in Bangladesh - even Bangladeshi Sanatanis are getting disgusted and asking Indian BJP and VHP to stop these embarrassing and childish propaganda attempts with Godi Media.

If you don't like Azaan in the open (too noisy) - then make legislation to stop it if you can. There are cellphone Azaan apps nowadays which should be available to every Muslim in India.

These are celebrations on Dhaka streets in the last two years. "C" grade Arabs enjoyed these Hindu festivals every year.

These are Muslim boys/girls who had their Arangetram festival earlier, I guess they are "C" grade Arabs as well. I had many friends whose daughters graduated Arangetram from Dhaka Bharata Natyam schools. Just go easy on the "Bangladeshis are all Talibani and Jihadi" trope. This is insulting calling people slurs and names. Have some shame. And most Bangladeshi people have a nickname which is not Arabic. Like "Aurgho", "Shanto", "Nalini", "Priya", "Ishika", "Luvonee" (short for Lavanya).

 

[Sharma Ji]

Hindus go to a lot of dargahs too, and gurudwaras, and churches, monasteries and stupas even.

Dalai Lama yaha rehta hai, pope bhi aaya tha

We are a way more diverse lot, obviously we're better at it.. you lot are 902% momineen, you have no idea about India.

Those pics are a novelty over there, who you trying to fool, man ?

Proudly saying now, we are a full on Musalman MULK, you have been East Pakistan since the beginning.

@Bilal9

 

[Guru Dutt]

Yeah, if the Mughals wanted to convert they could have done it in their 1000 years rule over India. Your few dozens brave hearts could have escaped but not the millions of cowards. The majority of Indians were cowards......always subjected to rules of foreign powers.

Mughals could not convert all Hindus cause not a single year went when they were fighting either in whats Rajasthan, Haryana Punjab or North east or Himanchal or Uttarkhand or whats called North Indian states or then what was called Deccan which had whats now now Orissa or Mahrashtra or in Tamil nadu or Karnatka or Andra /telangana with one or the Hindu King fighting for his Dharma


Bin Quasim started raiding India only in 712 but then till Mehmood Ghaznavi rearted muslim conquests only in 998 to 1030..... what and who was fighting for those 286 years ?????

then Ghauri only re started in 1175-76 ... thats where were all so called Brave muslim's for 145 years as Mohammad Ghauri could could capture Delhii after bieng defted more than 14 times in 1202 he became first muslim sultan of delhi


so starting from 712 till 1202 thats almost 490 years and from Sindh till Delhi and that too Mughal rule was pratically 1857

but much before in 1720s and marathas were taking chowth from Mughals to Rajpoots to rohailas and even threatnng Nizam Hydrabad and Nawabs of Awad which then under WALLIULLAHH DEHELVI Invited first Nadir Shah of iran to reign in Jaats and Marathas and sikhs and later his deputy who was now sultan of afghanistan Ahmed shah abdali and later same muslim elite invited British for there protection against Martahtas which regouped yet again even after losses in 3rd battle of Panipat

fast forward same muslim elite is the neo elite ruling Pakistan and even Bangladesh today and sameguys welcomed USA insouth asia and helped it against USSR to fund war against HINDU INDIA ... sounds simmillar isnt it ... so in short OLD HABITS ONF MUSLIM FEUDAL ELITE DINT CHANGE

 

[Saif]

Mughals could not convert all Hindus cause not a single year went when they were fighting either in whats Rajasthan, Haryana Punjab or North east or Himanchal or Uttarkhand or whats called North Indian states or then what was called Deccan which had whats now now Orissa or Mahrashtra or in Tamil nadu or Karnatka or Andra /telangana with one or the Hindu King fighting for his Dharma

You can do all the chest beatings you want to do, but the fact remains the same that had the Mughals wanted to systematically covert the Hindus, they could have done it during their 1000 years of rules. If the Hindus were converted by the Mughals we could have the largest Islamic saltanat in the world.

 

[Guru Dutt]

You can do all the chest beatings you want to do, but the fact remains the same that had the Mughals wanted to systematically covert the Hindus, they could have done it during their 1000 years of rules. If the Hindus were converted by the Mughals we could have the largest Islamic saltanat in the world.

Babur won 1st battle of Panipat in 1526 against IbrahimLodhi & in 1527 against combined forces of Rajpoots in Khanwa after which Mughal Empire started while in 1857 it ended when Bahadur Shah was exiled to Rangoon in Burma so thats 331 years so how it can be 1000 years

first Muslim sultanate in delhi was formed in 1202 and last mughal was exiled in 1857 thats still 655 years then how come these 345 years ?????

we are Hindus even today cause we kept fighting for owr religion and cultaral identity and even today world wants to come to India because its majority Hindu and the only garuntee of democracy tell me one mulsim majority nation where there is democracy left ?????

 

[Saif]

tell me one mulsim majority nation where there is democracy left ?????

Turkey, Malaysia, Indonesia, Pakistan and Bangladesh ( Awami League and India are responsible for the the current situation in Bangladesh)

 

[Guru Dutt]

Turkey, Malaysia, Indonesia, Pakistan and Bangladesh ( Awami League and India are responsible for the the current situation in Bangladesh)

calling bnagladesh or pakistan a democracy is an insult to democracy and we all know what kind of games against opposition are played in Turkiye so ok you can call it democracy as for Malasiya and Indonasia sure they are deomcracy but they dont hate there hindu roots or mistreat hindu miorities like they do in Bangladesh or pakistan

 

[Saif]

calling bnagladesh or pakistan a democracy is an insult to democracy and we all know what kind of games against opposition are played in Turkiye so ok you can call it democracy as for Malasiya and Indonasia sure they are deomcracy but they dont hate there hindu roots or mistreat hindu miorities like they do in Bangladesh or pakistan

Your Indira Gandhi also declared emergency across India, right?