Diplomatic row: Bangladesh summons Indian envoy over Himanta Biswa Sarma remarks

Dhaka expresses displeasure

Bangladesh conveyed its displeasure over the remarks, describing them as disparaging to bilateral ties, The Times of India reported citing diplomatic sources.

Call for restraint amid fragile ties

Dhaka urged New Delhi to refrain from statements that could strain relations.

The ties had seen marginal improvement since Tarique Rahman assumed charge earlier this year.

It emphasised that public comments capable of escalating tensions are counterproductive.

Backdrop of recent tensions

Relations between the two countries have remained sensitive following attacks on Hindu minorities in Bangladesh after the fall of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024, when anti-quota protests spiralled into violent unrest.

Sarma’s remarks trigger row

On April 26, Sarma had said that 20 foreign nationals were arrested in Assam and subsequently pushed back to Bangladesh, sparking a diplomatic reaction.