'Misplaced': India rejects Dhaka's claim of 'anti-Bangladesh' activities on its soil

In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) dismissed the allegations as "misplaced".

"The Government of India is not aware of any anti-Bangladesh activities by purported members of the Awami League in India or of any action that is contrary to Indian law. The Government does not allow political activities against other countries to be carried out from Indian soil. The Press Statement by the Interim Government of Bangladesh is thus misplaced," the statement by the Foreign Ministry read.

In the statement, India also said that "free, fair and inclusive" elections should be held in Bangladesh at the earliest to reflect the will and mandate of its people.

This comes after the Bangladesh government had raised concerns about Awami League members opening offices in New Delhi and Kolkata.

In its statement, India said that these activities "undermine the principles of good neighborliness and non-interference".

Sheikh Hasina was ousted on August 5 last year, following a student-led anti-government movement, and has been residing in India since then.

Muhammad Yunus then took office as the Chief Advisor of the interim government. India's relations with Bangladesh have deteriorated since then, mostly after Hindus being attacked in the country was downplayed by the Yunus government.

Bangladesh's poll body chief said general elections would be held in the first week of February 2026, but ensuring it in a free, fair and impartial manner will be a major challenge.