Bangladesh has formally expressed displeasure over a demonstration outside its diplomatic mission in New Delhi. Officials described the incident as unacceptable and deeply regrettable. The protest took place late Saturday night outside the Bangladesh High Commission.
According to Dhaka, the demonstration created panic among mission staff. Moreover, authorities did not provide advance notice of the gathering. As a result, Bangladesh raised concerns about security responsibilities in India’s capital.
Foreign Ministry Issues Strong Statement
On Sunday, Bangladesh’s Foreign Ministry released a detailed statement. It said miscreants carried out activities directly outside the High Commission perimeter. Consequently, personnel inside the complex felt unsafe and alarmed.
The ministry stated that Indian authorities allowed the protest without prior coordination. Therefore, the High Commission remained unprepared for the situation. Officials stressed that diplomatic missions require special protection under international norms.
Additionally, the ministry rejected India’s portrayal of a recent killing in Bangladesh. It objected to labeling the incident as an attack on minorities. Instead, Dhaka described it as an isolated criminal act.
The statement emphasized shared regional responsibility. It said all governments must protect minorities within their own borders. At the same time, it urged restraint in framing sensitive incidents.
Advisor Voices Family Safety Concerns
Separately, Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Advisor Touhid Hossain addressed reporters in Dhaka. He said the High Commissioner’s family now feels at risk. This feeling followed the Saturday night protest, he added.
Hossain questioned how protesters entered a highly secure diplomatic zone. He noted that the mission sits in one of Delhi’s most protected areas. Therefore, he asked why Hindu extremists gained access.
Furthermore, Hossain suggested the incident could have been prevented. He said authorities should have stopped protesters from approaching the mission. Otherwise, tensions were bound to rise.
Indian Response Downplays Incident
Meanwhile, India offered a different account of the events. External Affairs Ministry spokesman Randhir Jaiswal spoke to reporters on Sunday. He said a small group gathered outside the High Commission.
According to Jaiswal, about 20 to 25 youths participated. He said they protested the killing of a Hindu man in Bangladesh. He described the protest as peaceful and brief.
Moreover, Jaiswal claimed the gathering posed no security threat. He added that authorities maintained order throughout the incident. Indian media outlets, including India Today, carried his remarks.
Bangladesh Acknowledges Security Assurances
Despite criticism, Bangladesh noted India’s assurances on diplomatic security. The Foreign Ministry said it took note of India’s commitment. It expects protection for all Bangladeshi missions across India.
However, officials stressed that actions must match assurances. They reiterated that diplomatic safety remains a legal obligation. Therefore, any lapse could damage bilateral trust.
Wider Political Context Adds Strain
The incident comes amid strained relations between the two neighbours. Tensions increased after last year’s uprising in Bangladesh. The movement ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after 15 years in power. Hasina has remained in India since August last year. Since then, Dhaka and New Delhi have exchanged sharp remarks. Political sensitivities have further complicated diplomatic engagement.
According to the United Nations, the uprising proved deadly. About 1,400 people died during nationwide protests. Additionally, thousands suffered injuries during clashes.
Against this backdrop, the New Delhi protest has heightened unease. Bangladesh now seeks stronger guarantees. It wants assurances that diplomatic norms will be fully respected.
